UPDATE: We are now accepting bookings for the 13th of July onwards. More details to follow, so keep an eye on our website homepage and social media pages for details.
It has been a very strange few months since we closed our doors on the 23rd March. For owner Ian, it was an especially sad moment that marked the first time we had closed since he started running the business in 1982 (you can read more about our history in the ‘Our Story’ section).
As the world went into lockdown, and the hospitality industry faced its biggest challenge in a generation, but we were determined not to let Covid-19 get the better of us. From that moment, we decided that we would come back better than ever before, and have been working hard since then so that we can reopen as soon as is safe to do so.
While you can’t visit in person yet, we thought we’d bring you a little behind-the-scenes action, to show you what we’ve been up to, and get you excited about visiting us again…
Exciting new changes in our bar…
One of the biggest changes happening at The Oxwich Bay is a redesign of our bar area. We can’t say too much right now as we don’t want to spoil what will be an amazing surprise, but we can give a few hints as to what’s going on…
Designed to be more spacious and inviting, the new layout will take into account new social distancing measures, while allowing us to serve you efficiently and safely, with shorter wait times. Aesthetically, it will incorporate elements of exposed brick and wood (inspired by our adjoining Chestnut Room and the beautiful ancient woodland beside us), as well as having a more light and spacious feel.
Mark prepares the area to lay new flooring.
Don’t worry, our real log fire isn’t going anywhere, it’s just getting a little TLC, ready to provide a warm welcome on cooler days.
A hidden gem…
While refurbishing our bar area, the team unearthed a section of original wallpaper from the 1980s! Our Duty Manager Neil, who has worked here for 30 years, believes it’s an original Laura Ashley design. Does anyone remember this wallpaper, or know where it’s from? We’re considering keeping a section framed! What do you think?
Our Chestnut Room...
It seems like only yesterday brides walked down the aisle and guests enjoyed a meal in our Chestnut Room. Right now, the space is being used to house the wood that will go into our new bar, as well as our brand new gates.
Inspired by stained glass window designs, they hark back to The Oxwich Bay’s history as a former rectory. We’ll be sure to post a picture once they’re installed!
We also have lots of other exciting changes, including cottage room refurbishments and a brand new competitively priced food and drink menu, which will focus on seasonal favourites and family-friendly dishes – all of which will be revealed in the coming weeks!
Teamwork makes the dream work
We would be nothing without our team, who have been working hard both on-site and from home to keep things moving.
Our Maintenance team stop for a socially distanced cuppa in-between working on our new bar area.
Executive Manager Lindsay working from home with a little help from pup Trevor.
We’re excited to introduce a new member of the team – Operations Manager Abi, who brings with her a wealth of hospitality experience.
Oxwich Bay Beach
We know how much our customers and guests will be missing the beautiful Oxwich Bay beach, whether it’s waking up to the sound of the waves beyond your window, toasting the sunset with a drink in our garden, or stretching your legs on the sandy shores.
Though it’s in strange and unfamiliar circumstances, we are more grateful than ever to work in such a stunning location. Steve, a member of our Maintenance team, said that some mornings there isn’t a single footprint on the beach.
What will be the first thing you do when you can stay with us again? Swim in the sea? Do some yoga in the sand dunes? Watch your pooch play in the waves? In the meantime, we’ll leave you with these lovely photos to enjoy…
Note: we do ask that people respect those who live locally to the beach by not driving here and parking along the road if you live more than 5 miles away. The beach car park will open again, but in the meantime, please stay at home until the guidance changes.
Stay safe and see you soon
Stay safe and we hope to see you soon…
The Oxwich Bay Team
