Lake District: Kirkstone Pass Inn owners seek new operators to run pub

The Kirkstone Pass Inn is looking for a new landlord or lady to run the pub after the previous operators announced last month that they would be closing, having only reopened on April 1 this year.

Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery had taken over the popular spot for walkers, cyclists, and motorists after nearly five years of closure but said it was closing its doors despite a "fantastic run."

Owners Supreme Escapes are now advertising for someone new to take the reins.

The Facebook post announcing the opportunity said: “We’re looking for the right person, couple or business to take on and run the Kirkstone Pass Inn.

“This is a great opportunity to take on a pub in one of the Lake District’s most recognisable locations, make it their own and continue building the business.

“There are also exciting plans to grow the wider Kirkstone Pass brand, giving the right operator the chance to be part of something with even more potential.

“We’d love to hear from experienced pub operators, local hospitality businesses, breweries, drinks companies or anyone with the right experience and passion to take the pub forward.”

Jerry Huppert, a partner in the company Supreme Escapes, courted recent controversy when it was announced in July that they would begin charging for use of the nearby car park, which had traditionally been free.

In response to complaints, he said the newfound revenue from motorists would help him avoid passing on costs to guests at the holiday lets he owns opposite the car park or charging a higher lease to the pub.

When the pub’s closure was announced last month, Mr Huppert clarified the future of the pub amid online speculation.

He said: "The one point I would like to make very clear at this stage is that the pub has always been a pub, and it will remain a pub.

"There is absolutely no intention on our part to remove or lose the pub."

Anyone interested in running the Kirkstone Pass Inn should email info@supremeescapes.co.uk.