He started at the Old Hall as a bartender in 2017 but was promoted to cellar manager the following year. He explained to Opening Times: “When I first started, I had very little experience of cellar work but
quickly developed a passion for serving well-conditioned cask beer the way it should be. I’ve enjoyed learning about the history and how it’s developed over the years, and I love learning about new styles, but I’ve still got a soft spot for traditional cask best bitters and ESBs.”  During the lockdowns, Barney also started home brewing and now runs a full-mash kit, and kegs his beers. He has a long-term  ambition to start his own brewery, too. He has already been to Torrside in New Mills to brew a special beer for the Old Hall. 

In addition, both pubs have benefitted from significant investment over the past couple of years. At the Old Hall, the large garden now features big stretch tents for a combination of outdoor and under cover drinking (see our Beer Gardens feature on page 19). Meanwhile the Paper Mill has been extended into a neighbouring cottage to include another drinking area, and also displays of beers and wines to take away. The Paper Mill also has a delightful hidden beer garden at the back.