Refurbishments to Historic Pub

We’ve been delighted to assist our neighbours, The Merchants 1688, with recent refurbishments to their historic pub. The Merchants shares the listing with our office at 29 Castle Hill, Lancaster and is located in the historic Castle quarter of Lancaster.

The Grade II listed building was originally a Warehouse and dates from the 18th century with later 19th century amendments.  Evidence of its use has been found in directories from 1852 declaring Richard Hinde as a wine and spirit merchant. Small traces of  this name can also be found painted around the stones of the building.

The Merchants bar is located in the large stone barrel vaulted cellars of 29 Castle Hill; local myths talk of these vaults leading to trap doors of the Castle. HPA Chartered Architects have designed a bespoke bar area with storage areas as part of the refurbishment.  The design of the bar focused on creating an attractive focal point that is in keeping with the history of the building but still provides the “wow factor” and a contrast between old and new. The upgraded cladding to the bar is hand crafted from timber to add visual depth and texture. Storage is cleverly incorporated as a feature with floating boxes that minimise fixings to the fabric of the listed building.

We are looking forward to seeing The Merchants open again soon and would highly recommend visiting this historic venue and restaurant.

You can read more about the project here.

Photos courtesy of The Merchants.