The couple who have taken ownership of Chesterfield’s oldest pub say they’re ‘beyond delighted’ to be opening its doors once again this weekend.
Ye Royal Oak, based in The Shambles, right in the heart of the town, has undergone a major transformation – with bright décor, a refurbished bar, and even a suit of armour on display.
The pub, which is estimated to date back to the 17th century, has been closed for several years. But thanks to the vision of former teachers Meg Hartman and Patrick Hopkins, customers will be welcomed back to Ye Royal Oak from this Friday (18th April).
Visitors will be treated to more than a dozen keg and cask ales, Devon cider, Highland whisky and more. For those feeling peckish, the pub will be serving Pieminister pies too.
Speaking on the restoration, Meg said: “We wanted to restore the building back to its former glory. After sitting closed for four years, it just felt a bit sad. It’s not just any pub—it’s the town’s pub, so we really wanted to do right by it.”
“We stripped everything back. Underneath all the layers of previous decoration was this beautiful wood. We embraced the history, kept it simple, and let the old beams and Tudor features do the talking.”
“It’s been our lifelong dream to buy a suit of armour— so we finally made that happen.”
Patrick added that the process of renovating the venue was an eye-opening experience: “We started by peeling back layers of wallpaper, layers of history. Some of it was horrendous, some of it was quite cool.”
“For the first three months, we were teaching during the day, then coming here every night. We even used half-term to work on it. It’s been full-on, but we feel it’s been worth it.
“This has been about giving something back. This pub has been part of the town’s history for so long, and now it’s our job to look after it.”
The work done by Meg and Patrick has been commended by Shaun Stevenson, creator of the Chesterfield Great Historic Pub Tour events. Shaun said: “What Meg and Patrick have achieved here is remarkable.
“This little historic pub has had a proper restoration. It’s like it’s had a heart adjustment—a full set of new valves. It’s beating again, right at the centre of the town. It’s something to be commended and supported.”
“You can see the revival happening across Chesterfield. Places like The Bank, The Spread Eagle, and this pub are reopening, there’s a real transformation underway.
“This isn’t just another pub—it’s part of Chesterfield’s living history. Anyone who visits will see that, and I’m certain they’ll come back.”
Find out more about Ye Royal Oak on Facebook, and discover more about the town’s Great Historic and Haunted Pub Tours here.
Discover 50 great places to eat and drink in Chesterfield here.
