Former Bakewell bank reopens as restaurant after £2.6m revamp
A Grade II-listed former bank in the centre of Bakewell has relaunched as a restaurant and cocktail bar following a £2.6 million makeover.
The Charleston has opened in the town’s former Royal Bank of Scotland building after a three-year restoration project by Derbyshire hospitality group Longbow Venues.
The development brings a vacant landmark back into use and has created around 60 jobs, according to the company.
The venue combines a café, restaurant and cocktail bar, with interiors inspired by the 1920s. Original features of the historic building have been retained, including the former bank vault, which has been converted into a private dining room.
Speaking at the official opening, Longbow Venues managing director Rob Hattersley: “This project has been in the pipeline for three years and it’s amazing to finally open it.”
“There are so many people who have helped make this happen. Firstly, our landlord, Coverland UK, whose support and contribution have been invaluable throughout the project, and then my amazing team, because I simply couldn’t have done it without them.
“Finally, I have to thank my mum and dad. They opened Aitch’s Wine Bar in Bakewell 44 years ago and created a hospitality legacy in the town. They taught me everything I know, and I hope we’re able to continue that legacy through The Charleston.”
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The restaurant was officially opened by Derbyshire Dales MP John Whitby and local businessman John Brocklehurst.
Brocklehurst said it was encouraging to see one of the town’s best-known buildings brought back into use after standing empty.
“When you’ve got a sympathetic property developer and a first-class restaurant working together, this is exactly what you hope for,” he said.
Whitby described the investment as “a leap of faith”, adding that the project would provide a boost to the local economy.
“Creating around 60 jobs is a real boost for Bakewell and the wider Derbyshire Dales, and The Charleston will add something really exciting to the town’s evening economy,” he said.
The Charleston is the sixth venue operated by Longbow Venues, which owns several hotels, pubs and restaurants across Derbyshire and the Peak District.
The venue will serve brunch, evening meals and cocktails, with an emphasis on locally sourced produce and regular live music.
