TWELVE SUCCESSFUL months have flown by since Muse bar and eatery opened its doors in Uppermill – so what better way to celebrate than gaining a new addition to the family?
Former Hollyoaks actor Rob Norbury opened Muse last May after successfully running the Muse ‘Annex’ next door for a couple of years.
A major refurbishment of the former Indian restaurant on the High Street took place to create the eye-catching, popular spot with rave reviews for its food, drinks and music.
And now in the middle of their first anniversary celebrations, there is no slowing down Rob as he launches into his new venture as landlord of The Farrars Arms in Grasscroft.
Saddleworth-based Rob got the keys to the historic pub on April 1 and, after re-decorating and restoring some of the features, he opened to the public just over two weeks later.
“Things have gone really well so far,” said Rob. “We started off quite low key but we’re gradually building up and getting the word out so we’re getting busier all the time.
“I wanted to do something different to Muse. The high standards are going to be the same in terms of food and drinks, but a very different atmosphere.
“We wanted to keep the traditional pub feel. We’re keeping the name, we’ve restored some of the wooden beams, and saved some old features, but added a few new ones as well.
“It’s quieter than Muse, and much more relaxed, so you can come in to have a drink with friends or a meal with the family and relax.
“We know what people want in Muse, but we also know what it was missing, so we’re trying to provide that here.”
Renovations include re-tiling the bar and restoring wooden beams while new additions are a re-laid outside patio with artificial grass and new carpets.
There are also numerous large TVs so sports fans can enjoy matches, as well as plenty of space for live music performances on Sunday nights.
And a new mouth-watering menu of traditional pub food will be served daily, alongside an extensive range of cask ales, beers, wines, spirits and cocktails.
Rob added: “I used to come in here quite a lot for years – though it feels very different now I’m running it! The chance came up last minute and I just decided to do it.”
Visit Muse Bar and Eatery at 27 High Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, OL3 6HS or call 01457 777964. Muse is open 7 days a week from 11.30am until late. Find out more on their website: www.museuppermill.com
Visit The Farrars Arms at 56 Oldham Rd, Grasscroft, Oldham OL4 4HL or call 01457 875348. They are open 7 days a week from 12noon, with food served until 8pm daily and 7pm on Sundays. Find out more on their website: www.thefarrarsarms.co.uk
