Harlequin Pub

News for Harlequin:

• 4th August 2024

  The historic Harlequin pub on the edge of Kelham Island has reopened under the stewardship of new landlords Chris Bamford and Kate Major. Promising a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, the duo aims to revitalise the 170-year-old establishment.
  
  The Harlequin, located on Nursery Street overlooking the River Don, closed at the end of May under its previous landlady. Chris Bamford, who worked at the pub from 2008 to 2011, and Kate Major have taken on the challenge of managing the Harlequin. The pair currently run The Rutland Arms in the city centre and The Crow Inn on Scotland Street.
  
  Chris shared that their decision to take over the pub was influenced by his previous experience and connection to the place. "I have an idea of what's needed to make a place like this work," he said. Their goal is to reset the pub's image and bring people back by creating an inclusive and inviting space.
  
  The Harlequin's history dates back to 1845 when it was known as the Manchester, Lincoln and Sheffield Railway Hotel. After being closed for several years, it was reopened in 2006 by Wendy Woodhouse, who renamed it the Harlequin. Chris and Kate briefly considered reverting to its original name but decided against it to avoid confusion.
  
  Their vision for the Harlequin includes transforming it into an “arty hub” for Kelham Island. They plan to host gigs, collaborate with the local arts community, and support queer artists. This focus on arts and inclusivity aligns with the burgeoning arts scene in the wider Castlegate area, which includes a new skatepark on Exchange Street contributing to community development.
  
  A small team has worked to give the pub a fresh look, featuring new carpets, refurbished cellars, reupholstered seating, and a redesigned bar with uncovered original tiles. The pub will offer a variety of beverages, including seven cask beers, three cask ciders, 12 keg beers, and two keg ciders. Food service is expected to start in September, focusing on "pub classics" with a unique twist.
  
  Despite their success with The Rutland Arms and The Crow Inn, Chris and Kate emphasise that the Harlequin will have its own distinct identity. Chris stated, "You can't just create something that looks like The Rutland - it would look fake." Their aim is to maintain a unique character for each of their establishments.
  
  A significant part of their ethos is to create and maintain an inclusive and safe space for everyone. A Progress Pride flag will be displayed in the first-floor window as a statement of their commitment. Chris believes that inclusivity is demonstrated through actions rather than words. They are firm in their stance against any form of discrimination, ensuring that the pub is welcoming to all.
  
  Additionally, they aim to keep the pub accessible by offering reasonably priced food and drinks. Chris acknowledges the cost of living crisis and commits to fair pricing without compromising on quality. They also prioritise supporting small businesses and local traders over large corporations.
  
  The Harlequin's reopening under new management marks a new era for the beloved pub. With a focus on inclusivity, community, and the arts, Chris Bamford and Kate Major are set to breathe new life into this historic establishment.

• 9th October 2006

  The pub formerly known as the Manchester Hotel on Nursery Street has reopened as the Harlequin.