A HOTEL in Carlisle is creating a cosmopolitan garden terrace inspired by Chelsea Flower Show.

With a thriving bar, restaurant, hotel, apartments and flexible events spaces, the Halston, on Warwick Road, is one of the few venues in region that can host large capacity events for up to 400 guests.

The new garden space is planned to be ready for guests to enjoy in the summer.

Dominque Harrison, one of the directors at The Halston, said: “As part of our continued commitment and development of The Halston we are creating a much-needed outdoor space for our events.

“This will create a beautiful entrance and garden terrace area which will offer guests a stunning backdrop for wedding photos and a space to enjoy welcome drinks and events outside.

“The inspiration for the area was drawn from the displays at Chelsea Flower show last year, hopefully bringing a slice of urban garden heaven to our hotel.”

This current development follows on the back of over £7 million investment since the original dilapidated site was purchased in 2014.

Since then the Penny Blue restaurant and bar has opened on the site - replacing Belted Burgers.

Townhouses were added to the site in 2017 and the hotel held its first ever independent Wedding Fair in February 2019.

This year, new brunch menus, created by head chef Anthony Connor with vegan options have been created.

And a raft of new lifestyle events from evening yoga, to live mic nights in the Barton’s Yard bar and bistro.

The new outdoor space is planned to open in time for the summer and will also be used as part of The Halston’s own series of events across the year which include a fifth Birthday Ball on July 13 and wedding showcase on October 20.

The entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to delivering the absolute best experiences for their customers is embodied by The Halston’s team of four directors and co-owners Joanne Graham, Robin Graham, Dominque Harrison and Simon Harrison.

Their ethos and approach has directly driven the success of the The Halston, which in turn has acted as a catalyst for change on the high street in this corner of Carlisle.

Recent business to move into the area include Yellowjacket Bar, Fine & Country estate agents and House of Malt and a whole food shop on nearby Crosby Street.

These sit alongside a range of well-established independent businesses in the area including a barbers, printers, wedding dress shop, upmarket women’s clothing store and several other bars and restaurants.