An historic pub is about to open its doors after a massive makeover.
The Priory, on Micklegate in York, will welcome back customers on Tuesday following a four-week refurbishment.
A total of £230,000 has been jointly invested in the upgrade by Punch Pubs & Co and Queensway Advisory.
The renovation, carried out by EDD Building Services, aims to bring the pub back to being a community hub.
Micklegate regulars will have already spotted the exterior glow up, complete with refreshed signage.
Inside, much of the pub has been gutted and updated. There’s now a cosy open fireplace and a comfy lounge area.
Inspired by York Races, the new decor at the Priory has horse-related bric-a-brac throughout.
Horse themed wallpapers help give the pub “a charming old-English feel” say the owners.
Upholstered seating, a restored bar, timber flooring and patterned carpets all add to the new look, and even the loos have had a glow-up.
There are different zones in the pub now. The sporty area allows people to try new interactive Target Dart Zone boards whilst cheering on their favourite team.
On the other side, they can relax in the refreshed lounge area.
Long history
The Priory building has a long history. Parts of it date back to the 1300s when it was built as four tenements.
Attics and a rear wing were added in the 17th century, and in Victorian times shop fronts were added. It was known as The Coach and Horses in the 1800s.
The building was bought by brewer Joshua Tetley at auction in 1945, buying the building on the north side and extending into this the following year.
It then changed its name to The Coach, was renamed The Phalanx And Firkin in 1996, becoming The Priory in March 2003.
Andrew Spark, who has been the general manager for 19 years with Charter Inns – part of hospitality management company Queensway Advisory – is delighted with the updates.
“Above everything, we want to give back to our guests who have remained loyal over the years and ensure that they know that The Priory is a safe, inclusive space where everyone who walks through the door is guaranteed to have a great time,” he said.
Managing director of Queensway Advisory Kamran Aziz added: “We’re thrilled to unveil the newly refurbished Priory pub, a vibrant hub of great entertainment, good company and unforgettable moments. We have curated an experience for customers to explore exciting new offers, fresh promotions, and an atmosphere made for celebrating together.”
On Thursday, the opening night, there’ll be live music and “reopening drink specials”. Karaoke returns for Friday night,
