New owners reflect on a new chapter for historic North Devon pub

The new landlord of The Beaver Inn at Appledore has been reflecting on the beloved pub’s first two months under new ownership and looking forward to a first Christmas at the pub.

The Irsha Street pub began a new chapter on September 3 when it was taken over by a local family, with Jamie Rutland now managing the business day-to-day, alongside his parents Mark and Kerry.

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With more than 400 years of history and a strong tradition of live music, The Beaver Inn has been a focal point of Appledore life for centuries – and the new management say they aren’t rushing to change anything.

Above: New Beaver Inn landlord Jamie Rutland has been reflecting on his family’s first two months running the well-known Appledore pub. Credit: Ray Smith

Landlord and manager Jamie said the decision to take it on came from a genuine affection for the building, the views it offers and the community that surrounds it.

He said: “My parents and I love the pub. We love the local community around it — and we love what it is and what it’s about.”

Above: The traditional bar and historic interior of the Beaver Inn is a part of its charm. Credit: Ray Smith 

Rather than rebranding or reshaping the inn, Jamie says the vision is simply to build on the strengths already in place.

“The idea is to expand on what’s here already,” he added, “the music, the atmosphere - what can we change, can we make it any better?”

The Marmalade Club, the popular Sunday music session, is still on every week and the new owners say that won’t be going anywhere.

Above and below: The estuary views at The Beaver always prove popular with locals and visitors alike. Credit: Ray Smith

As Christmas looms, winter menus are in place and the Beaver has a run of music nights on offer right through December.

There is no rush to change the beers on offer either, although the pub has recently added its own Beaver Ale, which is proving popular.