Major investment in local pub

When the credit crunch hit in 2008, many local pubs had to tighten their belts.

But at The Unthank Arms, they decided they had to invest in the business.

They’ve refurbished throughout and converted a redundant outside space, allowing them to cater for weddings and parties, whatever the weather. Their tactic is starting to pay off.

Changing how they use their courtyard area means they can now cater for double the number of people. In the past, the pub had to hold their upstairs space free, in case the heavens opened. The Courtyard is already proving popular, with bookings stacking up for the summer ahead. Landlord Nick De’ath, who’s been at the pub for 21 years, explains why they took the plunge: “When the credit crunch hit, we didn’t spend anything we didn’t have to, for a year. But actually, we realised we needed to take a decision. We needed to be bold and invest.”

Outside, they offer homemade burgers, sausages and salmon on their barbecue menu, but they’re finding that wedding parties are opting to use the new space too. But just because the word “wedding” is mentioned, doesn’t mean they triple their prices: the cost stays the same whatever the occasion. And they can adapt the menu; one couple asked for Toad in the Hole, another wanted Roast Pork followed by fish finger rolls later in the evening.

They can also cater for weddings and parties at their sister pub, The King’s Head, in Brooke and also have an outside catering business called ‘Picnic’.

Clever use of the space is coupled with appealing to a cross-section of people. Next month sees them stage their 6th Comedy Festival, giving people a chance to see up-and-coming comedians on a small stage. Sarah Milligan and Reginald D. Hunter both played The Unthank before they hit the big time. They’re involved with this September’s EDP Bidwells Norfolk Food Festival, as well as both the Norwich Wine and Ale festivals. Other businesses can use their space for art exhibitions, conferences or “swishing parties”, knowing that diversifying can be key to paying the bills.

For any enquires, go to The Unthank website or call Nick for a chat on 07767 387062