A new craft ale house is set to move into an historic building in York.
The Little Ale House will be moving into the upper floors of 46-50 Stonegate, which used to house Little Betty’s Cafe.
The company behind the application already run a Little Ale House in Harrogate. It lodged plans for the conversion last year, which have now been approved.
Following the closure of the cafe, the site has been out of use since Spring 2021.
The firm’s application stated that the opportunity to take on the vacant floors was a natural move, given the owners’ passion for historic buildings.
It also highlighted that the firm aimed to create a cosy environment for people to meet and socialise, without the distraction of TVs or background music.
The oldest parts of the building date back to around 1600 and it also features 19th and 20th Century additions.
Plans for the Grade II* listed building include maintaining some of its more modern additions to showcase its historic features.
As part of previous renovations, Betty’s had added modern service areas to the building.
The front rooms of the first and second floors of 46, 48 and 50 Stonegate are set to house the bar area and seating for the ale house, with service areas in the rear.
The Little Ale House was established by husband and wife team Richard and Danielle Park.
The business began in Harrogate in 2016, with the aim of placing a traditional pub atmosphere at the forefront of its vision.
The takeover will see The Little Ale House join Harrogate Tipple on Stonegate, following the opening of its shop on the ground floor.
Approval of the plans comes almost four years after Betty’s announced it was closing the café on the first floor of the building in spring 2021.
The ground floor shop then closed in the Autumn.
The tea room’s managing director Simon Eyles said at the the time the decision had been difficult and the firm was grateful for the loyalty and kindness of its customers.
For more information on The Little Ale House, check out their website here.