A popular Newton Aycliffe pub is set to reopen under new management just months after its closure left punters devastated. 

The Huntsman, on St Elizabeth Close in Woodham, will turn on the beer pumps for the first time in weeks on Friday, October 11, at midday. 

The new owners - who have almost 30 years of experience in the industry - were first announced for the venue in late August, just one week after the pub closed its doors. 

They’re now set to serve up “homemade food, perfect pints and drinks, quality entertainment and great service” to Aycliffe regulars. 

The Huntsman has had a turbulent few years, first calling last orders in January 2022 before new owners stepped in and reopened it in July of that year. 

It then closed again in August 2024, when owners hinted at a disagreement with the pub’s brewery owners Stonegate. 

At the time, regulars reacted with disappointment, saying they had “very happy memories” at the site and were “sad” to see it close.

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The pub has already announced a string of deals, including steak night every Thursday, fish Friday with £10 for prime cod fillet with chips, mushy peas, and tartare sauce, and two for £20 on parmos, burgers, and pizzas, on Monday and Tuesday. 

Customers are already rejoicing about the opening on Friday, with many Facebook users replying “see you tomorrow” on the venue’s countdown post. 

It said: “It’s almost that time. We are delighted to be opening tomorrow from midday to midnight! We will be offering a great range of beers, wines & spirits with a reduced menu and we look forward to seeing you all tomorrow.”