See inside landmark South Shields seafront pub ahead of Easter launch
The pub had closed its doors earlier this year.
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Hide AdThe pair picked up the keys in February and since then have been working to get the pub and restaurant back on track in time for its Easter weekend launch.
Sinia, 35, said: “The Rattler is in such a significant place on the seafront and it has become iconic.
“I found out that it had shut and straight away I thought; ‘I really want it’. “So I enquired and then contacted Tom Cram, who owns the chalets next door, and we decided to open it up together as co-owners.”
It re-opened to customers on Thursday, March 28, and bosses say it will be fully operational by next weekend - with a full menu, entertainment and extended opening hours.
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Hide AdSinia said part of the refurbishment has seen the team strip back layers of paint on the outside of the railway carriage to uncover its original colours of maroon and ivy.
Meanwhile the inside has been done out in a shabby chic look, to give it the feel of an old fashioned train station.
Sinia added: “It has been around-the-clock work since we got it. We spent two and a half weeks just cleaning it.
“We have done out the inside with a shabby chic feel.
“And inside it has gone from duck egg blue to a more original old station look with modern touches here and there.”
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Hide AdPub bosses say the venue still has its terrace area and big conservatory so customers can dine with a view.
The venue currently has a team of 10 staff with more due to join the ranks at Easter.
Sinia continued: “I am delighted with how it looks and we plan to continue to invest.
“The hard work the team has done has been amazing and a few more improvements are to come.”
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Hide AdThe pub is currently serving food from 12pm to 8pm, Monday to Saturday and a Sunday Carvery from 12pm to 6pm, with extended opening hours planned after Easter. From May onwards it will serve breakfast.
Over the Easter weekend it will be open 12pm to 1am, featuring live entertainment including in-house DJ’s.