An historic Maidstone pub re-opened on Friday following a £900,000 transformation, including the restoration of its original Victorian name: The Market House.
Formerly known as Earls, the pub is located in the heart of the county town opposite the Hazlitt Theatre and next to Fremlin Walk shopping precinct. It had been closed since January, while it was comprehensively remodelled inside and out.
The pub’s ground floor bar area has been opened up to create more space for customers, the stairs have been moved, and a former storage area has been converted into a kitchen.
Outside, a new covered alfresco drinking and dining area has been installed to the front of the building, and a first floor roof terrace created, overlooking Fremlin Walk, with heated, covered seating areas.
Also on the first floor, a new function room has been created that can accommodate up to 30 people. It boasts its own bar and separate entrance to the pub’s new roof terrace.
In addition to the structural improvements, the pub has undergone full internal and external redecoration, incorporating stylish new furniture and décor, combining contemporary influences while also drawing upon the pub’s history.
A new food menu has been introduced, with ingredients sourced locally wherever possible. Customers can also choose from a selection of small plates, perfect for a light snack or to share over lunch. For early risers, breakfast is now available every weekend from 9am to noon, offering dishes such as avocado toast and baked spicy beans and eggs.
Lou Davies, general manager of The Market House
The drinks offer has also been refreshed, with an extensive range of beer and cider on draught and in bottle, along with a choice selection of premium wines and spirits, and cocktails.
A new coffee station has also been installed serving freshly ground Fairtrade organic Grumpy Mule coffee, available to take away, along with a full hot drinks menu and selection of cakes.
As Earls, the pub was renowned for great live music, and performances will continue at the Market House from 9.30pm every Friday and Saturday, and late afternoon every other Sunday.
Lou Davies has been appointed as the pub’s new general manager, and has overseen the recruitment of 17 full- and part-time staff. Lou, who has worked in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years, said: “We have been overwhelmed with the fantastic feedback we have received since opening the doors to the new Market House.
“The pub looks absolutely fantastic, and we have a great team in place, working hard to ensure that the Market House fulfils its incredible potential.”
Director of retail and tenanted operations for owner Shepherd Neame, Nigel Bunting, said: “We are delighted with the results of this major investment. Our objective was to retain the pub’s historic character and atmosphere while creating an exciting environment in which to drink and dine.
“We are confident that, with its expanded facilities and stylish new look, the Market House will prove a popular destination in Kent’s county town.”
