LAKELAND Inns chain is set to make its return from lockdown with new offerings to its service.

The pub chain will see all of its establishments reopen with a revamped food offering, including a new pocket-friendly selection of dishes for drop in visits.

There will be a new selection of pocket friendly substantial meals for customers who don’t wish for a formal sit down meal. 

Managing Director Kirsty Ridge said: “With new rules stating everyone must have a substantial meal if they are joining us for a drink, we are looking forward to welcoming customers into our pubs to enjoy fantastic, freshly cooked food courtesy of our talented kitchen teams.

“Of course we recognise that not everyone will want a two or three-course meal in our dining areas, so we have also introduced a selection of pocket-friendly bar meals for customers who are mainly calling in for a few December tipples.

“We really don’t know what the appetite of the public will be to go out for a drink when they have to have a meal as part of the deal, but we are geared up to make their experience as affordable and pleasant as possible.

“Normally at this time of year, we would be bursting to the seams with festive drinkers, groups of friends and colleagues enjoying a festive tipple and Christmas parties galore.

“This year will be very different and while we will do our very best to inject plenty of festive cheer, there are rules and regulations which we must uphold.

“Of course, we will take our responsibilities very seriously and we ask that all customers help us to ensure our pubs are as safe and Covid secure."

UKHospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “These are safe spaces for people to meet, relax and socialise and the sector is desperate to get staff back to work, open their doors and, in the long term, diminish reliance on the public purse and begin driving economic recovery.”

The businesses that will be reopening include The Sun Inn in Ulverston, The Black Cock in Broughton-in-Furness, The Commodore in Grange, The Royal Oak in Spark Bridge and The Royal Oak, Curthwaite.