A historic Carlisle city centre venue, once home to the much-loved Lane Bar, is about to begin a new chapter, reopening this weekend as a speakeasy-style cocktail and wine bar.
Think vaulted ceilings and cosy hideaways, Chesterfield sofas and mood lighting, the clinking of glasses and the gentle tinkling of a piano.
That's the scene my mind conjured while speaking to Michael Boone, co-owner of Crown Lane Cellar, the reimagined space at the corner of Long Lane and Fisher Street, opening this Friday, November 8.
"What we're really passionate about is how we make people feel when they walk through the doors," said Michael.
"We want to create that atmosphere - good blues and jazz music, not too loud, small intimate spaces, and no corners being cut with service or drinks."
Michael, along with partner Bruno Lokutijevskis, who will be running the new new venue, are also behind La Cueva de Llorona, the Mexican restaurant on Devonshire Street that opened a year ago to rave reviews.
This time, the duo are bringing a different kind of energy to Carlisle's historic quarter, but with the same emphasis on service.
"At the restaurant, all of our reviews mention the amazing service and the best cocktails around," Michael said.
"We want to bring that here too - it warms my heart hearing people enjoying themselves in our place."
Since taking over the keys, the pair have been transforming the iconic venue with new furniture, artwork, a fresh drinks menu - and even a piano.
"I've run into a few people who want to play," Michael said.
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"It could be a place where people learning can showcase their skills. I can imagine a little carol-singing around the piano, but I definitely want live music here.”
Outside, the quirky garden area has been revamped and refreshed with new seating, a pod, and a gazebo alongside the existing bar.
The upstairs room, once a private VIP space, will also reopen - this time for improv theatre, stand-up comedy, or even student games nights.
After its grand opening on Friday, Crown Lane Cellar will open Thursday to Sunday from 1pm until late, with food offerings such as charcuterie boards to follow.
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