New look Judge’s Lodging has the wow factor

It has always had a handsome exterior. Now the Judge’s Lodging on Lendal, York, has an interior to match.

The pub and restaurant reopens to the public on Tuesday, July 1, and anyone who remembers its rather dark and dingy atmosphere of old is likely to be wowed by the new look.

Owners Thwaites have invested £1.7 million in the six-month makeover – and its shows.

The biggest change is a new first floor outdoor area at the back. This must count as one of York’s most stylish beer gardens, complete with L-shaped sofas on the timber decking.

Below are five new chalet-style garden rooms for guests, next to the small inner courtyard. As a result the number of bedrooms at the Judge’s Lodging has increased from 16 to 21.

The craftsmanship that has gone into the Judge’s Lodging can be seen as you enter the front door.

Here you’ll find the spirit bar, with bottles displayed in a bespoke wooden “medicinal cabinet”.

Each different room has its own feature – from wire sculptures to a wine glass chandelier.

On one wall several bewigged judges overlook proceedings.

One of the innovations is York’s first tank beer.

This giant copper cylinder contains Warsteiner Beer shipped over direct from Germany. It is served unpasteurised straight from the tank – so it is as fresh as if you drank it at the brewery.

The ceiling at the popular cellar bar has been opened up, and there’s a small snug room, perfect for intimate meetings – or liaisons…

Your host is Nick James. He began his hospitality career as a student collecting glasses in a bar at St James’s Park in Newcastle, and has worked in Yorkshire since the turn of the century.

“It’s exciting – a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Nick said, of being general manager of the revitalised Judge’s Lodging.

The latest renovations come after £500,000 was spent on structural work at the pub last year, bringing the total investment to £2.2 million. Nick said 50 jobs have been created.