Northumberland village venue set to relaunch as café to avoid competing with pub

The School House in Lucker opens on Wednesday, May 19 in what was previously The Apple Core.

It will operate alongside The Apple Inn, a winner at last year’s North East Tourism Awards.

Johny Johnson, who runs both businesses with his wife, Lauren, said: “The Apple Core was previously an Italian-themed restaurant but we felt it was competing with the Apple Inn.

"When the pandemic hit we decided we’d only open The Apple Inn because we weren’t sure how busy we’d be and we found that the pub did much better.

"So, we decided to rebrand The Apple Core as The School House and turn it into more of a family-friendly café/bistro style venue which will offer breakfasts, brunches and lunches.”

The easing of lockdown restrictions will also see the opening of four new holiday units, Southside Farm Cottages, just outside Lucker.

The steading has been created by the sympathetic conversion of the original farm dwelling with the addition of two brand new attached cottages built in stone with a slate roof.

The businesses are part of the Stablewood portfolio which includes Stablewood Coastal Cottages and the Beau Monde five-star spa facility.

Daniel and Aimee Johnson run Beau Monde, while Daniel and Johny’s mum, Tina, head the company.

The School House has a special offer from May 19-23. Book a table in advance to receive 10% off your bill. To book, visit www.theschoolhouselucker.com

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