Dr Neil Hudson joined local stakeholders for the opening day of Cumbria’s newest community owned venture – the Mardale Inn at Bampton.
After almost two years of campaigning, villagers raised enough money through community shares to buy their local pub – something they had been without since before the pandemic. £400,000 was raised, with the majority from kind-hearted Cumbrians wanting to see a local resource thrive.
Spotted pouring a pint behind the bar, Dr Hudson toasted the community’s success and looked forward to the next stages of the development which will include an overhauled kitchen for a meals option.
Dr Hudson has long supported the venture which aims to draw both locals and tourists visiting nearby Haweswater and Ullswater. The pub’s 150-year history is an important part of local heritage and something community organisers feel strongly about preserving.
Dr Neil Hudson said: “What a win for rural community power! It was so good to see everyone’s smiling faces, knowing all their hard work has paid off. Bampton is a beautiful place and made all the more beautiful with the Mardale Inn’s new sign hanging proudly above its door.
“A village pub is not just a place to drink – it’s a community hub where people get together to share ideas, build business networks, and enjoy cultural events. To see such a small community pull together and save their local is so heart-warming. I was delighted to support the team with this project, and I wish all involved every success moving forward.
“And on a personal note, I really enjoyed pulling my pint of Cumbrian Ale, and look forward to more over the coming months. Cheers!”
The pub will be opening for drinks and occasional pop-up food on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm and on Sunday from Noon to 8pm. For more information, visit www.themardaleinn.com
