The Punch Bowl at Marton Cum Grafton back open after revamp

Simon Wade has taken the reins of the 16th Century Punch Bowl Inn in the upmarket village of Marton Cum Grafton, just south of Boroughbridge in the Vale of York.

The venue adds to four others he owns in the area: The Grantham Arms, The Tapp and Tutt and the Fox and Hounds in Boroughbridge, plus the Blue Bell at nearby Arkendale

As previously reported Simon bought the pub because it is a ‘heritage pub’ that had been neglected and it would fit in with the rest of his portfolio.

RECOMMENDED READING:
Simon Wade takes over The Punch Bowl at Marton Cum Grafton

Former owners Provenance Inn previously had it on the market for £695,000.

General manager Laura Addle says the Punch Bowl has had a complete renovation.

“Everything has been redecorated and re-upholstered. Simon’s wife has designed the upholstery and the interior. She’s put in extra lighting and made it really cost.

Simon Wade inside his fifth pub (Image: Darren Greenwood)

“We are bringing the Punch Bowl back to life. It’s a stunning pub with a fantastic history.”

Among the first customers, following today’s opening at noon, were couple Charles Martindale and Liz Prettejohn, who were making their first visit after a trip to Fountains Abbey.

Charles said: The pub has lots of character.”

“It’s very pleasant said Liuz. The staff are very welcoming.”

(Image: Darren Greenwood)

“We wanted a decent pub that served a decent lunch.”.

Raffa and Ula Zawistowicz from Poland, but live locally, were also making their first visit.

Ula said: “It looks absolutely gorgeous. We are about to try the food menu. I expect it will be amazing.”

General manager Laura Addle (Image: Darren Greenwood)

Outside enjoying the extensive beer garden were friends Amy Harland of Harrogate and Helen Goodwin of Leeds.

Simon and the team oustdide the Punch Bowl (Image: Darren Greenwood)

Amy said: “We came today because it has re-opened. We wanted to be nosey. It’s amazing. It looks incredible. So far the food is amazing.”

Helen said what they had was delicious and she loved the décor and the atmosphere, adding the staff are very welcoming.

Bob Grainer of PPS of York (Image: Darren Greenwood)

Village resident Jill Hewick of Marton was also enjoying the warm sun with friend Jo Badazona from Leeds, the she was originally from Marton.

Staffers Toby Glassin and James Bennett (Image: Darren Greenwood)

Jill said of the pub. “It looks good. Simon is the best person to own it. I was praying he was going to buy it. He’s certainly turned it around.”

Jo said: “It looks very good. It needed a new lease of life and somebody who cared for it.”

Back inside Bob Grainger of York firm PPS said: “It looks fantastic, it’s fabulous. I can’t believe how different it looks. It’s a transformation.”

Raffa and Ula Zawistowicz enjoy the sun (Image: Darren Greenwood)

Owner Simon Wade added: “I’m incredibly proud of how we have managed to transform a pub that was at its lowest. We are looking forward to the future, of regenerating its popularity and providing a sensational local pub for the village.”