Lincolnshire Village’s Only Pub Set For Major Refurbishment

The Blacksmiths Arms in Rothwell closes on 20th April for a £270,000 revamp by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and licensee Nigel Rowson. Cleethorpes born-and-bred Nigel took the reins at The Blacksmiths Arms two years ago when villagers were concerned for its survival. The investment will upgrade the dated pub throughout, so that the quality of its interior matches its reputation for outstanding home-made food and excellent cask ales.

The project is expected to take more than two months with The Blacksmith Arms scheduled to reopen in early March in time for Mother’s Day.

The refurbishment will completely redecorate the eighteenth-century, Grade II-listed pub in a traditional style in keeping with its character, retaining original features such as open fires, old beams and flagstones, whilst making it more comfortable and welcoming. A kitchen refit and extra space for diners will enable Nigel to keep up with customer demand. Other changes include new doors opening the pub directly onto its stunning garden, new toilets and the addition of a private dining room seating 24 to cater for celebrations, functions and local shoots.

The Blacksmiths Arms is known for its locally sourced seasonal food. Inspired by the pub’s much-loved dogs, Georgie and Mable, Nigel plans to extend his culinary repertoire with the introduction of a special menu for customers’ four-legged friends when the pub reopens.

Says Nigel: “Rothwell has no shop and, other than the church, the pub is the only place where residents can gather, so it’s very important to local life. The village is incredibly supportive of all we do, although the pub is tired. I want to give The Blacksmiths Arms the investment it needs and the village a pub they can be proud of.”

Adds Star Pubs & Bars operations director, Grant Morgan-Tolworthy: “Behind every great pub is a great landlord and Nigel is no exception. He has not only put The Blacksmiths Arms on the map for food but has helped secure its place as a village hub. The pub gives back to the whole area and has raised nearly £5,000 for Lincolnshire’s Air Ambulance in just two years. Nigel puts his all into The Blacksmiths Arms and the community, and we’re delighted to be supporting him.”

The Blacksmiths Arms takes its name from the blacksmith’s shop that once stood at the front of the building. The base of the furnace can still be seen in the car park today.