There's a fresh chapter beginning at Hadrian's Hotel in Wall, Northumberland. The much-loved venue is set to reopen with a bold new vision - transforming into a vibrant pub, dining destination and hotel.
Leading the exciting relaunch are dynamic hospitality duo Jack Brown and Alice Lawson, who are bringing fresh energy, big ideas, and a passion for great food.
What inspired you to take over Hadrian’s Hotel in Wall – was there a defining moment?
We had been thinking about doing a venture for ourselves for a while and we decided to take the leap of faith after talking to a bit of a legend of the industry who gave us some brilliant advice to move forward. We viewed another property which fell through but the agent knew the landlord of Hadrian’s and thought we’d be a good match, and he was right!
The building is exactly what wanted for the next stage in our development The perfect size with multiple revenue streams.
What is the vision for Hadrians?
Our focus initially will be to reinstate the venue to the local community by bringing back the local pub and building relationships.
Having two different food offerings will be big for us. A good choice for locals and visitors, with the aim of being a destination for fine dining and great pub food too.
The venue will be an extension of the team’s personality and passion for the industry. Delivering quality service, food & drinks.
How have you connected with the local community- how important is it to engage them?
I have joined community groups and we openly invited everyone in before and during the build process to begin opening some open dialogue and a rapport between the team and the village.
What kind of atmosphere did you want to create?
A buzz. Sounds too simple, but to create a consistent buzz within the venue is difficult.
From the moment we open the doors, we’d like to think we’ll be welcoming a variety of customers. One of the biggest appeals of the venue was its location.
We hope to be welcoming walkers, cyclists, locals & customers visiting Northumberland. And of course, those coming direct to us, who will then discover what we have on our doorstep!
How did you shape the menu or drink offerings to reflect your vision?
Willow’s offer will be 8 courses of seasonal ingredients, heavily influenced by the best British produce we can buy. Accompanied by wonderful wines from around the world and cocktails which have been crafted with the same ethos of quality and deliciousness!
In the pub, we will be serving traditional gastro pub food. The opening menu will be a mainly classic dishes and we will be using the specials board to add a little diversity & more choice but also to get a feel for what is popular.
If guests leave remembering just one thing, what do you hope it is?
The personal touch. Everyone is different and enjoys something different.
That’s the beauty of having the option in the hotel. Whether it’s a local farmer who wants a pint of John Smiths and a steak pie or a tourist seeking fine dining with a wine pairing, we can fulfil both needs and make each person feel as welcome as the next.
What’s next for you both?
There may be another venue on the way…but shhh, it’s still a secret!
hadrianshotel.com