S&N buys historic Haltwhistle inn

Scottish & Newcastle is the new owner of the historic Black Bull Inn that is sited in the heart of the market town of Haltwhistle in Northumberland.

The two-storey, end-of-terrace property near the church in Market Square is believed to be the oldest inn in the town, dating back to the early 17th century, and it retains many original features.

Its location in the South Tyne Valley and its reputation for real ales and good food make it popular with locals as well as walkers and tourists visiting the Pennines, Hadrian's Wall and Northumberland National Park.

It offers a main bar with exposed beams and open fireplace and a 20-seat restaurant, along with three-bedroom owners' accommodation and a self-contained studio flat for letting.

The Newcastle office of Christie + Co sold the freehold off an asking price of £385,000 on behalf of proprietor Jackie Dougray.

By Angela Frewin