Ex-Bibendum manager to open second gastropub

Flatcappers​, the Bristol-based pub company founded by ex-Bibendum​ manager Pierre Woodford and café/bar group Loungers, is to open its second pub in Rode, Somerset next month.

After opening the award-winning Castle Inn in Wiltshire in 2006, Flatcappers acquired the free-of-tie lease on The Bell Inn, which is currently undergoing a six-week refurbishment to revamp the interior and exterior, and implement a new kitchen. The pub will also eventually offer boutique bedrooms, and a thoroughly converted skittle alley to the rear of the premises.

While The Bell will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, Woodford said the pub’s emphasis would be as much on the beverages as the food.

“Whilst food is a massive part of our business and is something we take very seriously, the drinker is held in as much regard as the discerning diner,” he said. “We don't take reservations, it’s first come first served, and we don't have a designated dining area.

“After the success of The Castle it seemed only natural to look at other pub opportunities in the local area and after viewing over a dozen pubs, The Bell at Rode stood out as being a pub with huge potential.”

Flatcappers has also announced they are close to securing a deal on a third ‘very big’ pub close to Bristol, and will confirm details shortly.