The Dunkirk Story

The Dunkirk Inn’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and community spirit.

 

When the pub went up for sale in 2015, concerned locals joined forces to secure its future.

 

In 2016, the new owners took action. The vision was simple yet profound: to preserve the Dunkirk’s heart as a hub for the community, offering a warm, welcoming real ale pub for locals. They completely renovated the pub, strengthening its structure, installing underfloor heating, and reimagining the ground floor as a cozy and inviting space.

This marked the rebirth of The Dunkirk, driven by a commitment to serving excellent beers, ales, and freshly cooked, affordable food. The pub’s family-first ethos fostered a warm, inclusive atmosphere that quickly became its hallmark.

 

Then came 2020. When Covid struck, the owners refused to stand still. Instead, they took on another ambitious renovation. Despite the uncertainty of the time, they removed a troublesome column in the bar and accessibility was enhanced with a lift and compliant escape stairs.

 

The changes made a huge difference to the pub.  The bar was more welcoming and accessibility was improved for all the guests. They transformed the first floor into a bright, airy restaurant and function space, now known as “The View at the Dunkirk.”  The risk paid off, creating a stunning venue that has since hosted weddings, birthdays, book launches, seminars, and more.

 

As restrictions eased, the restaurant’s popularity soared. Demand for tables began to outgrow the space, threatening to encroach on the beloved pub area. Determined to protect the Dunkirk’s identity as a real ale haven, the owners devised a plan. In 2022, they secured planning permission for a ground-floor restaurant, and a state-of-the-art kitchen extension. Managing the pub and restaurant during construction was a juggling act, but the team’s ingenuity ensured a seamless experience for guests. A temporary kitchen, outfitted with cutting-edge equipment, allowed the Dunkirk to continue delighting its patrons throughout the project.

 

Despite difficult working conditions and a tight site, the work on the permanent kitchen extension was carried out in record time, and the temporary kitchen was taken away.  As soon as the temporary kitchen was taken away, the team swiftly turned their attention to the restaurant extension, ultimately delivering a beautiful new space, “The Green Room,” that perfectly complements the pub’s character.

 

Today, The Dunkirk Inn proudly boasts two unique restaurants alongside its thriving real ale pub. This transformation was far from easy, but the collective effort and unwavering dedication of the team have made it all worthwhile. The Dunkirk stands as a testament to the power of community, vision, and perseverance, continuing to welcome guests with warmth and excellence.