A classic village pub is to shut on Sunday night for a big refurb.
The owners of the Spotted Ox in Tockwith are spending £110,000 on giving it a new look inside and out.
It shuts at close of play on Sunday (13 October) and will reopen in early November with six new jobs created.
New licensee Alex O’Dell and Heineken owned Star Pubs are behind the revamp.
Alex, who also manages The Ship Inn at Aldborough and The Old Black Swan in Bedale has now taken on the lease of The Spotted Ox which he had been running on a temporary basis since August 2023.
During his time behind the bar he has transformed the pub’s fortunes, doubling trade on the back of introducing food, coffee and live entertainment.
“When I took over The Spotted Ox as a temporary manager, it was very quiet and little used. It is now the beating heart of village life,” Alex said.
“The pub is tired looking and in need of some TLC. I have made some improvements already, but the investment will take The Spotted Ox to the next level, improving the ambience for our many regulars and visitors whilst retaining its traditional character.
“I shall also be opening the newly decorated Forge Coffee Shop & Tea Room soon after the pub reopens, which as well as serving teas and coffees will be used to host village events.”
Log burning stove
Outside, the Spotted Ox will be completely overhauled, redecorated in a chalky grey with darker grey windows and new signage and lighting.
A timber pergola will be added to the side of the pub with festoon style lighting, providing an alfresco eating and dining space for 12.
The re-landscaped garden has further seating for 100 on new garden furniture as well as a giant chess set.
In the bar and dining area the walls will be redecorated in a muted green and French grey with classic style wall and pendant light fittings.
The furniture will be a mix of deep button back leather seating and floral fabric covered free standing furniture.
A new log burning stove and dart board are being fitted as well as old sporting bric-a-brac. The toilets are also being upgraded.
Pub food includes Sunday lunch and the pub’s signature homemade pies – chicken, leek & bacon, steak & Guinness, minted lamb and homity, chicken burgers, parmos and specials.
The drinks include five cask ales, a wide selection of gins, and barista style coffee using locally roasted Dancing Goat coffee beans.