A York pub, is set to re-open its doors on Thursday 16th December, following a dramatic £300K development.

Owners Punch Taverns have worked closely with Partner, Sarah Skrzypiec, on a joint investment project to carefully restore the pub, maintaining its character and heritage.

Partner Sarah explains: “I’ve always been interested in running a pub, even when I was working as a teacher in Essex. So when the opportunity came up to run a pub in my home town of York, I jumped at the chance!”

The new look Royal Oak now has a fully extended orangery eating area extending from the original back-bar. The front bar remains for those loyal customers who remember the pub of old and still wish to enjoy a quality pint from the new extended range.

Sarah adds: “We want the Royal Oak to appeal to everyone and it’s quite rare that pubs have an equal appeal for both drinkers and diners but that’s what we’ve tried to create here. We’re raring to go and look forward to welcoming customers old and new!” 

The free function room with Tudor beamed ceiling fits with the pub’s Tudor heritage, along with the candlelit dinners and ghost stories. To further complement the pub’s heritage, the menus comprise of Tudor style dishes, such as Almond Soup, as well as locally sourced game based dishes and those with a quirky Royal Oak take on pub classics, such as Mutton Stew.

Those with a larger appetite can splash out on a six course ‘banquet’ of the chef’s favourite dishes, all for £23.95.

Punch Taverns’ business relationship manager, Steve Birkett adds: “We’re delighted to be working with Sarah on the redevelopment of the Royal Oak. Sarah and her team have some great plans to deliver a fantastic customer experience and they have our full support.”