Joule’s unveils new Nantwich Brewery Tap at The Leopard

Joule’s Brewery has opened its new Nantwich Brewery Tap after spending £750,000 on The Leopard pub.

The company acquired The Leopard earlier this year before refurbishing the historic building on London Road.

The house was originally built in 1880 by Taylor Walker to a very high spec’ in the style of an Edwardian hunting lodge.

Steve Nuttall, Joules director, said: “We found an unusually high quality build, especially the fine leaded glass adorned with African hunting shields.

“This led us to research the pub’s history and to find the Taylor Walker designer’s penchant for both hunting lodge and country house design.

“We have tried to re-establish this history and created some new features making reference to its origins.

“Nantwich is a key local town for us, and we have been desperate to have a Brewery Tap here to showcase the three beers we brew at the nearby brewery in Market Drayton.

“The total investment nearing £750,000 reflects our confidence in this exceptional pub.”

Trudie Meredith, sales and marketing manager, added: “The Leopard has been Joule’s Brewery’s biggest ever investment which reflects our desire for the brewery to secure a flagship house in Nantwich.

“We hope we have done the house justice, which also was once home to Nantwich Football Club, headquarters and changing rooms as a part of it’s rich history.”

Steve Nutter and Cate Gale (pictured) take the Leopard having recently relocated from Manchester.

They said: “Our aim is to take the Leopard forward with the Joules vision and values in mind creating a traditional British pub, providing excellent cask ales, traditional home cooked British dishes and exceptional customer service, all in a welcoming comfortable environment.

“The refurb has not only been limited to the interior of the Leopard – the beer garden has also undergone an impressive transformation, offering our customers the opportunity to experience al fresco dining – weather permitting of course!”

Joule’s now has 18 houses and has already started work on the Mere in Alsager due to open in 2013 and the Old Town hall Vaults in Whitchurch due to open later this year.