Keith and Jennie Steptoe joined The Old Eden as new managers in January 2020.  They really hit the ground running by building on the already extremely popular quiz nights and themed food nights by introducing live music entertainment with many more ideas in the pipeline.  Through their previous experience in running a phenomenally successful hotel and public house in Yorkshire they reintroduced that superb traditional public house atmosphere.  And then it happened…

Since March, Keith and Jennie have been working hard on upgrading the premises whilst ensuring that when the Pub reopens it will be a safe environment for staff and customers through implementing government and industry guidelines: safe social distancing, so no standing at the bar – sitting at tables only, no waiting staff to collect empties or serve drinks and food to tables – social safe distancing, card only payments and many more things.  ”It’s life, Jim, but not as we know it!

The first thing they have been able to start offering is a take-away service via ‘Call and Collect‘ or ‘Click and Collect‘ options.  Menus are available on their website – www.theoldeden.com – and you simply choose your food and/or drinks which can be collected at your specified time slot on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.  Draft beers and ciders can ordered in 2-pint containers and bottled drinks including soft drinks are also available.  A 50p charge is added for the 2-pint containers but if you return them to the pub when you re-order you will not be charged again and your old container will be sterilised for re-use.

When coming to collect your take-away order at your designated time slot, you need to visit the side entrance to the pub located along the car park entrance.  It is clearly sign posted and there are markings in place to ensure everyone is keeping their 2m distance.  All payments are made contactless to maintain social distancing.

As you read this The Old Eden may well have been able to reopen as at the time of writing it is  predicted that 4th July  is reopening (independence!) day.  The thinking is those Pubs with beer gardens will be allowed to open so you will be able to enjoy their wonderful gardens.  In preparation for this Keith and Jennie have been able to introduce via your telephone, an order from your table service, informing you when you will be able to collect from the bar.  Glasses being returned of course!  Upgrading the public WiFi system has also been achieved with reception being improved both in the Pub and garden.

This is just the start and Keith and Jennie are looking forward to building on their ideas to ensure a good (and safe) time is had by all their customers.

Keep up-to-date on all the latest service information including any changes online at www.theoldeden.com or via their Facebook page @TheOldEden