A historic pub in Bideford, formerly known as the Patch & Parrot, has reopened its doors as The Patch Wine Bar & Kitchen following extensive renovations. The venue, located on Cooper Street, has been revitalized by new owner Alasdair Gould, locally referred to as Ali, who aimed to create a welcoming space for wine enthusiasts and diners.
Revitalization Efforts Transform the Venue
The Patch had been closed since 2018 and was sold at auction three years later. After failing to secure redevelopment, the property returned to auction, where Ali acquired it with a vision for its future. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the original identity of the establishment, stating, “Everyone knew it as The Patch,” thus opting not to change the name.
The renovation process unearthed numerous historical features, including ancient timber beams and original windows. Ali preserved much of the building’s character, retaining the curved seating and tiled floor in the main bar area. He noted the extensive decay resulting from years of neglect, mentioning, “Some of the ceilings had been shut for decades, and half of one ceiling was already on the floor.”
Inside, the venue offers a range of spaces, including a function room and three letting suites which are currently under completion for guest accommodation. The menu features a variety of offerings, from rotisserie chicken to traditional pies, all crafted from original recipes developed by Ali.
A Unique Dining Experience in Bideford
Ali aims to differentiate The Patch from other pubs in the area. He remarked, “Bideford has loads of good pubs where you can go for a pint, but there are very few places where you can take your wife for a glass of wine and a nice meal.” The establishment has naturally attracted an older clientele, fostering a relaxed atmosphere.
During renovations, the structural integrity of the building became a significant concern. Ali remarked, “When we started digging into the floors, we found some of the joists had completely rotted away because the roof had been leaking for so long.” He highlighted a specific upstairs room where the floor structure had deteriorated to the point that the floorboards were the only thing holding it together.
The renovation revealed the building’s rich history. With large timber beams exposed, there is speculation that some may have come from ships, reflecting Bideford’s maritime heritage. Although Ali considers this a possibility, he maintains that it remains unverified.
“This floor was lovely,” Ali said of the original tiled flooring. “It might have looked a bit of a mess when we started, but it’s been here forever, so there was no point in changing it.” He describes the venue as “a warren,” filled with intimate spaces that make guests feel as if they have discovered something special.
Reflecting on his renovation experience, Ali offered advice to others considering similar projects: “You’ve got to love it. With old buildings, you have to see through to the potential – through the delays, the challenges, and the unexpected costs.” He humorously likened the venue to the TARDIS, stating, “It’s much bigger than it looks from the outside.”
The Patch Wine Bar & Kitchen stands as a testament to the revitalization of Bideford’s social scene, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy a unique dining experience in a beautifully restored setting.
