Save the Forge at Ulgham
An Ulgham CBS Limited project
Save the Forge at Ulgham
An Ulgham CBS Limited project
The Pub
The Forge inn has been closed for over 4 years and the current owner has put it up for sale. Pubs are one of Britain's oldest and most popular social institutions, essential in fostering and developing social relationships among residents, strengthening the level of community cohesion in villages and parishes, and positively contribute to communal well-being.
In September 2023 the current owner informed NCC of their intention to dispose of the asset as per the Localism Act 2011.
The race is now on to save and restore The Forge Inn and guarantee for future generations a welcoming community hub for locals and visitors to enjoy.
Ulgham - the village of owls
Ulgham is a small historic village in the County of Northumberland, England. The name Ulgham is pronounced 'Uffam' and is known as the 'village of the owls'. With approximately 170 dwellings and a population of 351 (2021 Census), Ulgham is situated approximately six miles north-east of the historic market town of Morpeth. The village provides a rural environment whilst being within thirty minutes of the city of Newcastle upon Tyne. Also, within easy reach are the beautiful unspoiled and uncrowded beaches of the Northumberland coast, the Farne Islands, Holy Island, Bamburgh Castle and the historic town of Alnwick with its famous Castle and Gardens.
Ulgham - CBS - Our objectives
To purchase and refurbish the premises over a number of phases. To trade as a café during the day with good quality coffee / tea and simple food, to open as a pub bar supporting local breweries offering light snacks from lunchtimes to late evening 7 days a week. Provide a small shop space within the café area to serve the village and visitor with locally sourced essentials. Offer holiday accommodation utilising the remaining space as a revenue stream as well as provide Electric Vehicle (EV) charging facilities.
Our Customers
The coastal route through Ulgham, passes immediately outside the premises, this attracts many visitors to Northumberland and its many attractions and popular coastline. On average 1700 vehicles a day pass through the village. There are many cyclists passing daily and in particular at weekends. The August 2023 village survey suggested there would be significant support for a pub/ café and shop in the village and would be well used by residents as well as visitors, although it is recognised that the village alone would be unlikely to sustain all the desired services. Drivers of EV’s, there are currently very few EV chargers in the immediate area, whilst waiting it is expected that drivers will use the café facilities (EV chargers are a revenue earner in themselves)
Our Plan
Our Vision
Our Vision
Our Vision
We have a vision that we will build a sustainable multi-purpose community facility, reflecting the results of our village survey (August 2023) including a pub, cafe and shop. Creating a welcoming environment for all ages
Our Aim
Our Vision
Our Vision
Our goal is to bring the Forge back to life. The Forge Inn, Ulgham is the only pub in the village which is currently closed. We aspire to be a flourishing, friendly and welcoming village pub.
The Plan
Our Vision
The Plan
To purchase and refurbish the premises over several phases providing a community hub trading as a daytime café, public bar serving food from lunchtime to late evening, 7 days a week. Small community shop to serve the villager and visitors.
Our Sponsors
CBS Update
Congratulations to the Samson Inn at Gilsland on opening after many years closed thanks to their Community Benefit Society. See - it is still possible !!!
The UCBS are working hard to find a solution to opening the Forge.