Publicans across Eden are delighted with how things had gone on the first day they were allowed to serve customers after lockdown restrictions eased today.
Many said they hoped it was a sign of even better things to come.
Gary Sewell, general manager of the Board and Elbow, Corn Market, Penrith, said: “It’s been really busy today – there have been more customers than I expected.
“It’s nice to get staff back in – or rather outside – and see people enjoying themselves. There has been a really good atmosphere.”
He added that a few customers who had started to move chairs so they could sit in larger groups than permitted, but that staff had stopped people doing this and, hopefully, everybody will soon get used to the rules.
At the Sun Inn, Pooley Bridge, owner John McGuire said it had been a busy day, with perhaps 200 or more people passing through the beer garden by late afternoon.
“We are very pleased,” he said.
“We did not want it too busy because we wanted to test out our new systems, which have worked very well.
“It has been pleasant, good natured and people have enjoyed their food. Customers have been sensible about COVID requirements.”
Wayne Paul, owner of the Mill Inn, Mungrisdale, said the pub had welcomed a steady stream of customers since the pub opened at 12.30pm, made up of people ordering food and those just after a swift pint of beer.
“Considering how cold it is here I have been buoyed by how the day has gone,” he added.
“I have my fingers crossed that by the back-end we will be back to normal.”
Jamie Doogan, a team member at the Black Swan, Ravenstonedale, said they had a steady flow of customers, with a few people being outside enjoying a drink or two right from the time the pub opened.
