The Barley Mow Inn in Birtley, Gateshead, has become a TikTok sensation under new management, with Sunday dinner bookings going through the roof. The pub's videos have been watched by tens of thousands of people on the platform, and bookings for its sought-after roasts are now being made weeks in advance.
New Team at the Helm
Northern Hospitality Group has taken on the pub on Durham Road, welcoming customers back for the first time since February. New landlord Jon and his team have quickly generated a buzz, putting the pub back at the heart of the local community.
The pub's social media presence has grown rapidly, with views on posts across TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram reaching close to half a million. The Sunday dinners, also available for takeout and delivery, have earned rave reviews.
Popular Roasts and Community Plans
Head chef Charlotte Swan, a Gateshead native who recently returned from London, has hit the ground running with the roasts. Jon told The Chronicle: "With people not going out as much, you need to have at least one really strong day a week and that's what getting loads of people in for Sunday dinner can give you. The reaction we've had from customers so far has been fantastic; the roasts have been really popular and so have our mince & dumplings, we did about 200 of them just this weekend!"
Jon emphasized the importance of quality and affordability: "We're all real foodies here; we know we need to be using the best produce and we know what we'd pay for when we go out for a meal. I want to give people hearty and affordable food for all the family to enjoy!"
Future Events and Competitions
Beyond the food, which includes a curry night every Thursday and Fish & Chip Fridays, Jon has big plans, including a Birtley's Got Talent contest. He explained: "We've got themed nights coming up, local singers performing and will be running Birtley's Got Talent, with a big cash prize. There are a lot of talented people in Birtley and a supportive community, we hope the competition will be a way of bringing everyone together."
Addressing sceptics, Jon added: "I know there are a few sceptical people out there who have seen the pub open and shut quite a bit over the years who probably think 'yeah right, see how long this lasts,' but I think we're changing a few minds already. And we like a challenge!"
