A historic Lake District liquor company is thrilled after its bid to take over a remote tavern was successful.

Before it closed in March this year, Sticklebarn in The Langdales had been taken over by the National Trust over a decade ago.

The organisation was after an independent business to bring the tavern back to its country pub roots.

Its new operator Lanty Slee Liquor Company was named after Lancelot Slee who was famous for supplying the Lake District with his illicit liquor for over 50 years. 

Born in 1802, he had an illustrious career, working as a quarryman by day and bootlegging his produce by night.

The company owners started a project to reimagine Lanty Slee's Historic liquor and bring his presence back to the Langdale Valley. They can now be realised in a building that he would have regularly passed on his pack horse.

Joe Nichols, of Lake District liquor company, said: "We are very excited to be working in partnership with The National Trust to continue their excellent program of events including the Oktoberfest Beer Festival and introduce new Music and Food Festivals alongside community events.

"As residents of Langdale Valley, we recognize the importance of The Sticklebarn to our community and greatly appreciate the National Trusts' decision to select a local operator.

"We will offer the stickle on a free-of-charge basis to anyone looking to run community-focused meetings, groups or events and hope we can support the expansion of the range of services available to our rural community.

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"We will operate The Hayloft Barn on the top floor of the building as a celebration and event space, offering the opportunity to make those special memories to the incredible backdrop of The Langdale Pikes. The Pub will serve the very best of Local produce with Lanty Slee cocktails and spirits, local ales, wines, and champagnes.

"We also hope the space at The Stickle will allow us to realize our dream of returning distillation to the Langdale Valley and lay down a Langdale Whisky fulfilling our commitment to Lanty's legacy."

Sticklebarn Pub will open the first week of July and would like to hear from anyone passionate about Langdale and hospitality. There are flexible part-time and full-time roles available as well as limited live-in accommodation. 

To find out more, please visit the Lanty Slee Liquor Company website.