LGBT pub in Bedford welcomes new licensees

One of the oldest, most established LGBT venues in the country, The Barley Mow, in Bedford, is celebrating the arrival of two new experienced licensees.
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Katee Turtill and her father Stuart Turtill have recently taken over the pub owned by Admiral Taverns.

With a combined 28 years of experience in the pub industry, the father and daughter duo aim to preserve the pub’s reputation and retain its strong roots as an established LGBT venue.

The Barley Mow will celebrate its official re-opening on Friday 7 February at 2pm. Mayor of Bedford, Dave Hodgson, will host the ribbon-cutting ceremony and raise a new LGBT flag to pay homage to the landmark pub.

The Barley Mow in BedfordThe Barley Mow in Bedford
The Barley Mow in Bedford

A celebratory glass of fizz will be presented to those attending the opening to mark the occasion as festivities continue throughout the day, including karaoke and a DJ from 9pm. The dress code and theme of the day will be smart-casual attire with a rainbow theme.

Katee Turtill, Licensee of the Barley Mows commented: “Everything about the Barley Mow drew us to it. It’s a great pub with a fantastic community following. For that reason, we aren’t looking to change it too much, rather we want to enhance what people already recognised as being signature to the Barley Mow. I absolutely adore the pub; the customers are lovely, and I really want to make it that fun place for people to come back into.”

Customers will be spoiled for choice with the line-up of events planned, including a monthly cabaret show and special weekly theme nights such as fancy-dress evenings, Ru Paul Drag Race nights, Rum and Reggae nights and Pop and Cheese nights.

Resident Drag Queen host and karaoke master, Fanny Burns, will continue to entertain locals every Wednesday night with a DJ secured for both Friday and Saturday nights.

Those visiting the pub for a tipple will have an extensive selection of draughts, spirits and signature cocktails to choose from, which can also be enjoyed in the spacious beer garden outside.

Business Development Manager for Admiral Taverns, Mick Sheridan said: “I am thrilled to have Katee and Stuart on board at the Barley Mow and look forward to working with them. Both of them are incredibly experienced and have fantastic reputations. Both Katee and Stuart understand the importance of this community pub and have a strong vision to keep this a fantastic asset to the local community. I am very excited to see the new Barley Mow and I look forward to seeing all the wonderful events they have planned over the next few months.”

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