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Ramsgate pub the Bedford Inn transformed by new owner

A run-down boozer previously likened to "the cantina bar in Star Wars" on Trip Advisor has been transformed into a stylish community pub.

The Bedford Inn, in Westcliff Road, Ramsgate, has been completely renovated, with original fittings restored, the fireplace opened up and the floor rebuilt from reclaimed harbour pontoons.

The Bedford Inn, Westcliff Road, Ramsgate
The Bedford Inn, Westcliff Road, Ramsgate

Manager Gemma Britton, who previously ran the Queen Charlotte in Addington Street, says it's been a massive two-month project but it's all been worth it.

"It was very run-down and needed a lot of love," she said.

"We wanted to created a community pub that would be child-friendly, dog-friendly and a place the locals would love.

"People are over the moon to have a nice pub on their doorstep.

"We'd like it to be a community hub."

The Bedford Inn in Ramsgate has been refurbished
The Bedford Inn in Ramsgate has been refurbished

The owners got the keys on October 1 and after a lot of blood, sweat and tears, opened on December 6 with a lunch party including a Northern Soul DJ.

"It was so busy, everybody loved it," Mrs Britton said.

"It looks lovely in here - the builder was amazing and the owner's sister is an interior designer - and it's got a great atmosphere.

"It's got a traditional style with modern touches thrown in."

Mrs Britton says they have kept their prices reasonable, with no beer above £5, and offer a good wine list.

Everything was ripped out and replaced with original fittings and new features
Everything was ripped out and replaced with original fittings and new features

They also have a pizza oven and serve stone-baked Napoli pizzas, with a view to offering more food in the future.

She also wants to introduce monthly music events.

"We want to create a great pub for the locals, which is not overpriced and has lots to offer," she added.

In a Trip Advisor comment from last year, before its makeover, one customer wrote that it was 'like the bar in Star Wars with worse music'.

The Mos Eisley cantina in the 1977 Star Wars film was renowned for attracting trouble and violence.

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