Historic Bideford Pub Reopens as The Patch Wine Bar & Kitchen

A historic pub in Bideford, England, has reopened after undergoing extensive renovations. The former Patch & Parrot, located on Cooper Street, is now known as The Patch Wine Bar & Kitchen, under the ownership of local entrepreneur Alasdair Gould, commonly referred to as Ali. This revitalisation marks a new chapter for the establishment, which had been closed since 2018.

Ali acquired the property at auction three years ago, motivated by a desire to create a welcoming space for residents to enjoy fine wine and quality meals. He chose to retain the original name, as the venue has always been known as The Patch, despite its previous moniker.

Reviving a Neglected Landmark

The renovation process revealed significant deterioration within the building, which had been neglected for years. Ali noted that upon beginning the restoration, many ceilings had been concealed for decades, and parts of the structure had decayed severely. “When we started opening things up, some of the ceilings had been shut for decades, and half of one ceiling was already on the floor,” he explained.

The renovation uncovered original features, such as ancient timber beams and the original tiled floor, which Ali opted to preserve. “This floor was lovely. It might have looked a bit of a mess when we started, but it’s original and it’s been here forever, so there was no point changing it,” he stated. Some visitors speculate that the beams may have originated from ships, a nod to Bideford’s rich maritime history, although this remains unverified.

Ali’s vision for The Patch Wine Bar & Kitchen includes a diverse range of spaces designed to enhance the dining experience. The interior now boasts several intimate rooms, a function area, and three guest suites that are nearing completion.

A Unique Dining Experience

The menu at The Patch features dishes such as rotisserie chicken and traditional pies, crafted from original recipes developed by Ali himself. He emphasized the importance of creating a distinct atmosphere, stating, “Bideford has loads of good pubs where you can go for a pint, but there are very few places where you can take your wife for a glass of wine and a nice meal.”

The establishment has cultivated a clientele that appreciates its relaxed ambiance, appealing to patrons over the age of 30. Ali has intentionally steered clear of transforming the venue into a noisy bar scene, ensuring that it remains a comfortable place for dining and socialising.

Throughout the renovation, Ali learned valuable lessons about restoring historical buildings. He advised future homeowners and investors to be prepared for hidden challenges and costs. “With old buildings, you have to see through to the potential—through the delays, the challenges, and the things you don’t expect along the way,” he remarked.

The Patch Wine Bar & Kitchen stands as a testament to the potential of revitalising historical venues while paying homage to their legacy. Ali describes the layout as “a warren,” with various spaces that invite exploration and discovery, making it a special addition to Bideford’s local dining scene.

This reopening not only revitalises a beloved local landmark but also contributes to the community’s cultural fabric, offering residents and visitors alike a place to gather, dine, and enjoy.