9th January 2026
Written by Rachel Wallace
The Fox & Pheasant reopened its doors in late December 2025 just in time for the festive period with a new and improved look.
The refurbishment saw the entire downstairs drinking and dining areas reimagined and brought back to life, from the two front rooms - a pool room and a former breakfast room for overnight guests - to the main bar and dining spaces.
The stunning stone building includes the traditional front pub space alongside what were once stables, now transformed into the main drinking and dining areas. Previously, the two front rooms, the breakfast room and the pool room, felt quite separate from the rest of the pub, so the aim of the refurbishment was to bring all the spaces into harmony. The Designer focused on creating a fully integrated layout so that on busy trading days, customers could comfortably use the breakfast room without noticing a change in design and atmosphere
The bar area was another key focus. Originally small and without a backbar, it has now been redesigned to offer improved functionality and depth. The bar has been moved forward and reduced the wall space between the two rooms to create a more open-plan area, uniting spaces that previously felt disconnected.
Throughout the pub, the beautiful stonework has been sandblasted and cleaned, revealing a warm colour true to the traditional local [Permian] stone of the village. The wooden beams have also been restored. Areas that were previously carpeted have been fitted with timber flooring, while the original stone floor in the bar has been retained, cleaned and refreshed.
The sympathetic and thoughtful makeover preserves everything that loyal locals love, while introducing a warmer and more welcoming feel. Much of the furniture has been repurposed or reclaimed to create an eclectic, characterful look. The tables have been sanded and re-polished, the existing light fittings updated with new shades, and new carpet has been laid where needed.
With two open fires and three log burners, the pub retains its authentic country charm, and it is important to keep it that way.
The two front rooms now feature new country-themed wallpaper with ducks and deer, bringing the woodland theme that runs throughout the pub to life. With customers often visiting straight from outdoor activities - whether fishing, hunting or walking, the pub needed to remain a place where people can come in, warm up and relax.
Recognising that many visitors arrive after outdoor pursuits such as fishing, hunting and walking, the Design team ensured the pub remains robust, welcoming and suitable for muddy boots and cold hands in need of warming by the fire.
Outside, the signage has been refreshed and the building cleaned, with new lighting installed to enhance the exterior. The car park has also been improved with clearer signage to help guide arriving customers.
The Designer said “The Fox & Pheasant has so many beautiful features. We didn’t want to take away from that, it just needed a little lift, and that’s exactly what we’ve given it! We wanted to keep Armathwaite’s pub exactly how the locals like it.”
Take a look at the transformation for yourself and pop in if you are in the area!
