Schooner reopened (GALLERY)

LOCAL landlord Dave Campbell, with his wife, Julie, has taken over one of Gateshead’s longest-standing public houses, The Schooner.

Since opening on Friday 14th December the pub has seen the addition of six handpulls, of which one will always be connected to a real cider. Of the five dedicated to cask-conditioned real ale, one or two will always feature local brewery, Wylam, another will have Harviestoun’s Bitter & Twisted – which is already selling out every 3 days – and the remainder will be filled by sourcing local guest ales. Being free-of-tie, the pub hopes to showcase a range of ales, and is keen for customers to make suggestions.

The pub, once owned by Vaux Brewery, is on “the hippest street in the UK” according to a Google competition, but was on offer for just £125,000. “It was the right opportunity at the right price,” explained Dave, who said “it was always going to happen” for him and his wife. The former landlord whose 18+ years in the trade have seen him manage The Central, The Cluny, The Head of Steam and Riverside, has already started making changes to attract more customers, with a real fire in the bar, and wi-fi internet access provided free to customers.

Being located on Gateshead’s riverside cycle route, the husband & wife team are planning to install a metal cycle rack and make contact with Sustrans to let them know that the pub will be very cycle friendly, with soft & hot drinks available in addition to the range of alcoholic beverages. Food service will be available daily, with a range of sandwiches, toasties and stews available at very reasonable prices, and a Roast being offered on Sundays.

For drivers, the warming premises are set back from the main road, which gives a modest space to park a few cars, though it should be noted that the only access is from the East end of South Shore Road. For those coming on public transport, the main road is served by frequent bus services to/from Gateshead Interchange, and the nearest metro is a short walk away at Gateshead Stadium.

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