AL FRESCO eating and drinking is thriving at a Tyne Valley bar.

For Haltwhistle’s Brew Bar has gone from strength to strength since opening in December 2018.

The business on Market Place has been appealed to locals throughout the year thanks to its new and improved outside seating area, fresh food and takeaway service.

The bar, which is run by Ashleigh and Sam Jackson, brings a different choice to the town, with the menu promising an around-the-world twist.

“It’s been great,” Ashleigh said. “People are enjoying getting outside.

“We’re thinking outside the box and bringing everything that we like to Brew Bar and Haltwhistle. You normally have to travel elsewhere so we’re bringing something a bit different to the town.”

Sandwiches, sides or special breakfasts, its mouth-watering brunch menu provides an option for all at bargain prices.

Lockdown stopped customers visiting in person, but instead the Brew Bar experience was brought to them. Staff operated a take out and delivery service, with handmade pizzas going down a treat.

The pizzas were so popular that residents were booking them up days before delivery, Ashleigh said.

Popular Newcastle-based burger restaurant Fat Hippo has since paid a visit to Brew Bar, and footfall has also increased thanks to live music outside.

Ashleigh explained: “It worked really well. A lot of people are enjoying sitting outside and we are managing it really well.

“We prefer how we are doing things now with extra measures in place because we have lots more control over everything.”

The Covid-secure measures, Ashleigh said, have pushed Brew Bar further toward’s her ambition of creating a lively atmosphere and experience for everyone.

Last year, within months of opening, Ashleigh told the Courant their cocktail offering was met with caution by locals, who said it wasn’t going to work.

However the bar continues to thrive, with the cocktails being a key selling point.

“People can come here, enjoy themselves, sit down and have a drink,” she added.

“We’ve always tried to work on table service where it’s more of an experience.

“We’re more focused on good food and good drinks and creating a good atmosphere.”

Ashleigh and Sam spent months tirelessly working behind the scenes during the national lockdown and despite the challenges, the couple are positively looking ahead to the future.

Visitors keen to book for coffee, brunch or cocktails can reserve tables by contacting the bar over Facebook.

But be quick, as their Market Place outdoor tables, coupled with live music from local talents, has seen the bar become the go-to place in West Northumberland.

Brew Bar is open Monday-Saturday with social distancing and capacity restrictions in place.