Popular Community Pub Reopens with New Licensee Following £180,000 Transformation
The Plume of Feathers in Little Wymondley, Hitchin reopened on Saturday 10th June following an investment of £180,00 from leading community pub company, Admiral Taverns. The investment has enabled the brand-new passionate licensee, Sarah Woollcott, to breathe a new lease of life into the pub, ensuring it can sit at the heart of the community.
The pub has undergone a major transformation inside and out. Externally, the pub features brand-new lighting and signage, as well as newly planted greenery to enhance the beautiful surroundings. The pub’s beer garden – complete with a natural stream running through – has also been overhauled and seats up to 60 people. To the side of the pub there is a covered deck area with heaters to ensure visitors can enjoy the space all year round.
Inside, Sarah has worked hard to blend the pub’s original characteristics with the newly updated features so that it can remain a traditional country pub with an elevated twist. New recycled furniture and soft furnishings have been fitted throughout, including an eclectic mix of vintage wooden furniture to give the pub a rustic-chic feel. The original stone floor and fireplace have also been brought to life using warm, earthy colours, rugs and armchairs to provide a more welcoming look and feel.
At the helm of the pub is brand new licensee, Sarah Woollcott who has a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry having previously run pubs in London and Reading. Working in partnership with Admiral Taverns, she has worked hard to bring her vision to life and looks forward to running the establishment alongside her daughter, Lily.
Sarah Woollcott, Licensee at the Plume of Feathers said: “I’ve never been happier in my life than when I was running pubs – I love everything about it but particularly the social aspect and meeting new people. Having spent so much time in the city I am delighted to return to the countryside and I’m excited to bring the Plume of Feathers to the heart of the community. I can’t wait to unveil its new look to residents, and I hope to make it the go-to social hub for everyone.”
The pub also offers a separate dining room, providing an intimate space to enjoy a casual meal or special event. Sitting in the heart of the Plume of Feathers is a small ‘snug’ room complete with traditional wooden beams and new sofas and armchairs, which can be reserved for private occasions.
Upon reopening, Sarah will launch a food menu – including Sunday roasts – consisting of a selection of handmade dishes using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Served on quirky vintage crockery, each dish will offer a modern twist on classic pub favourites such as cottage pie, homemade burgers and even caviar rigatoni. There will also be a wide array of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes on offer.
Alongside a variety of premium ales and draught beer, the pub will host a fantastic drinks selection including a carefully curated wine and champagne list in partnership with local supplier, Hedley Wright Wine Merchants. In addition, Sarah looks forward to introducing a menu of more than 25 gins – some from local distilleries – along with a menu of recommended tonics and garnishes for guests to enjoy.
To celebrate the reopening, Sarah will host a soirée on Saturday 10th June with live entertainment from up-and-coming London artist, Bec Quinn, whilst customers will also be able to sample the new food menu. Moving forward, the licensee hopes to support local charities through an annual schedule of fundraising events.
Mick Sheridan, Business Development Manager at Admiral Taverns, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Sarah to the Plume of Feathers! Her passion and vision is extraordinary and I have total confidence that the pub will become an integral part of the community. I look forward to seeing what the future holds and I wish her the very best of luck.”
