The Bankhouse, Pudsey, set to reopen after refurb with new owner

The Bankhouse, found overlooking scenic views of Fulneck and Troydale on Bankhouse Lane, has been part of the town’s life for many years.

The pub closed its doors in January 2020, sparking questions over its future.

Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars will transform the pub before new licensee Richard Thewlis, who runs The Railway at Drighlington, takes the reigns.

Richard says he hopes to create a traditional country pub serving excellent food and drink.

The daytime menu will also feature coffee and cakes for local walkers and cyclists.  

The refurbishment, starting from January 9, is expected to create 20 new jobs.

The Bankhouse is scheduled to reopen in mid-February.

Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars will transform the pub before new licensee Richard Thewlis, who runs The Railway at Drighlington, takes the reigns (Image: Stars Pubs & Bars)

Richard said: “The Bankhouse is an idyllic old pub in a picturesque location. I fell in love with it as soon as I walked in. It’s got a wonderful atmosphere but it’s in a sorry state and crying out for TLC and investment. The refurbishment is just what’s needed to bring it back to life. The Bankhouse has been sadly missed by people; I want to make it an asset to the community once again.”

Refurb at The Bankhouse

The refurbishment will fully renovate the outside of the beautiful stone-built pub, adding new signage and lighting. The project will also overhaul the overgrown garden with new seating for 180 people, pretty planting and festoon lighting.

Star Pubs & Bars shared this vision of The Bankhouse ahead of its refurb work in January (Image: Star Pubs & Bars)

The internal revamp intends to keep the pub’s character and charm whilst upgrading it throughout. Original features such as the fireplace, flagstone floors and wood panelling will be retained. Meanwhile new décor will incorporate heritage colours and leather-covered banquette seating.

New food menu

Richard, who is a trained chef, is crafting a menu focused on affordably priced homemade pub classics and customer favourites from The Railway.

From meat and potato pie to lamb suet pudding and Sunday roasts, dishes will be made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.

The bar will offer wines, spirits and beers as well as cask ales.

Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars will transform the pub before new licensee Richard Thewlis, who runs The Railway at Drighlington, takes the reigns (Image: Star Pubs & Bars)

Growing up in Roberttown, near Liversedge, Richard spent a lot of his childhood in West Riding pubs run by his parents.

He transformed the fortunes of The Railway when he took it over in 2008.

Luke Morton, manager of The Railway, will now help Richard run The Bankhouse.

Jon Kelly, Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager, said: “Richard has built a fantastic reputation for The Railway, and I’m confident he will do the same at The Bankhouse. He knows the area and really understands what people want. He’s just the person needed to revitalise the pub. We’re delighted to be working with him.

Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars will transform the pub before new licensee Richard Thewlis, who runs The Railway at Drighlington, takes the reigns (Image: Star Pubs & Bars)

“Plans for The Bankhouse were delayed by the pandemic and its aftermath, but it’s reopening will be worth the wait. It will be a fantastic local for those living nearby and a destination country pub with a gorgeous garden for people from further afield.”

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