An historic Peak District inn which was the second highest pub in England before it closed is set to reopen following a deal with a local distillery.
The Cat and Fiddle Inn, on the A537 on the Derbyshire-Cheshire border, dates back to 1813. But four years ago, the pub closed, seemingly for good, following a particularly bad winter.
Now, the iconic building, near Buxton, is set to reopen after its owner - Stockport-based Robinsons Brewery - agreed a long-term lease with Forest Distillery.
The former pub is in an extremely remote location but one which was favoured by walkers and cyclists.
Robinsons said the pub had remained closed due changes to drinking habits, combined with a need for some “very expensive maintenance to the building”.
But The Forest Distillery, which produces its own whisky and gin, is planning to reinvent the pub.
It is looking to move the whisky part of its business to The Cat and Fiddle, making it the highest altitude distillery in Britain.
William Robinson, managing director of Robinsons Brewery’s pub division, said: “We have owned The Cat and Fiddle for almost 100 years and closing the doors was a very difficult decision but keeping it up and running just wasn’t viable.
“Many people would have sold it, but we wanted the building to have a long-term beneficial use to the community.
“So, before handing over the keys, we had to be sure that it was to the right person and that the business plan was robust enough to succeed.
“Forest Distillery is a wonderful local family business and exactly the right people to take The Cat and Fiddle into its next chapter.
“Their vision to create a local, authentic whisky distillery with an on-site shop, tours and a pub, has real potential and would transform The Cat and Fiddle into a destination venue the whole community could be proud of.
“We hope the community really gets behind this project. It’s exciting times for the pub and the local area.”
Forest Distillery is run by husband and wife team Karl and Lindsay Bond, along with three members of staff.
Lindsay said: “We’re excited and a little terrified in taking on such a big project. However, we are confident, that with local support, we can create something very special up there.”
Husband Karl said: “At our existing distillery, we are simply out of space. The Cat and Fiddle has the most fantastic network of cellars that are perfect for slowly aging our spirits, while also having a brilliant space above for visitors to enjoy.”
Both Forest Distillery and Robinsons are now investing in the property - but further cash is needed to restore the building to its former glory.
A crowdfunding push has now been launched, which is currently halfway towards its £50,000 target.
