Thanks to an incredible fundraising campaign, Grizedale Arts have completed the purchase of The Farmer's Arms at Lowick Green, Ulverston with the help of BSG Solicitors.

Following the launch of an investor appeal in November 2020 the campaign attracted over £300k in offers in just 21 days. The project was further boosted by a social investment loan from the Architectural Heritage Fund, a significant contribution from Grizedale Arts’ own charity reserves and many small donations.

The property had been empty for over two years, but now has a bright future ahead with exciting plans to bring something for everyone in the community from pop-up shops to cookery and exhibition spaces.

Adam Sutherland, Director at Grizedale arts explained:

“There is a huge opportunity to develop a hybrid pub for the 21st Century. The traditional pub model is struggling but that’s not to say it should be abandoned, rather it just needs a bit of reinvention. Over the next year, The Farmer’s Arms will be transformed into a creative and industrious rural hub.

As well as a place where food, drink and a bed for the night can be found, The Farmer’s Arms of the future will become a thriving community supporting all sorts of opportunity and creativity. A volunteer programme for both locals and visitors will offer skills, training and social benefits, supporting the running of the project and informing its direction.”

Project Manager Emma Sumner said:

 “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to save an historic building and retain it as a community hub. The Crake Valley has many innovative rural businesses, alongside celebrated visitor attractions such as Brantwood and the Ruskin Museum, and The Farmer’s Arms could help in the area’s recovery period. Employment will be a key issue and we believe The Farmer’s Arms will act as a gateway to not only the wonders of the valley, but also the world of work and enterprise, innovation and diversification.”

Deborah Turner, Head of Commercial Property at BSG Solicitors acted for Grizedale Arts in the acquisition and added:

“The Farmer's Arms was once a much-loved local institution and to see it decay over the last couple of years has been heart breaking for many people. We are delighted to have been able to assist Grizedale Arts in purchasing this special building and look forward to seeing their plans develop over the coming months and years.”

The first phase of the project expected to be open by summer 2021.

Pictured Emma Sumner and Adam Sutherland, photos courtesy of Karen Guthrie.