Prince Rupert pub, on Stodman Street, Newark, hosts grand opening of The Woolpack speakeasy

Those in the know about the latest addition to the town’s nightlife had a blast as a new bar opened its doors over the weekend.

The 15th century Prince Rupert pub has not only undergone a makeover, but the upstairs area has now opened ‘The Woolpack’ speakeasy bar on Friday (October 18), paying homage to the pub’s earlier identity.

The Woolpack is accessed via a previously hidden entrance, which guests gain entry to with a password given to visitors when customers call to book.

Upon arrival, the visitor can then pick up the phone next to the hidden entrance, give the password, and then will be allowed upstairs into the Woolpack.

With a cheeky nod to student life awaiting guests at the top of the stairs, visitors are then greeted with moody lighting, killer cocktails, all with a 70s retro feel with funky wallpaper and vinyl records as part of the decor.

General manager Samantha Johnson said that their opening weekend had gone really well.

She said: “It’s been really busy this weekend and Saturday was really busy — we had a birthday party and a hen party and we’ve had lots of lovely feedback.

“It seems to have gone down really well.”

On top of the new speakeasy bar, the Prince Rupert had also reopened the week before after undergoing a three-week-long refurbishment, with a new contemporary look but still embracing all of the building’s medieval nooks and crannies.

Alongside the real ales and drinks choices already loved by locals, a bigger, bolder range of spirits, ciders and craft beers are now also available, and the new food menu will continue to celebrate and showcase pub classics, as well as brand new pizza options.