First look inside Black Rabbit bar opening in Chester-le-Street

The Black Rabbit opened in the former Hollathans on Ashfield Terrace in Chester-le-Street on Friday (April 10) after its long-time owners stepped away from the venue after 20 years.

The venue has recently been taken over by Terry Haley, 32, and Richard Nellis, 57 and underwent a transformation costing more than £750k.

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The bar has been decked out with walnut panelling and swish leather bunkette seating giving a traditional feel and cosy vibe.

Terry runs bars in Durham including The Drunken Duck and the Ye Old Elm Tree, while Richard is best known for running Hibou Blanc and The Grey Owl.

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

He also runs the Abbey Group, a construction company specialising in the hospitality sector.

Thebar will serve drinks only over the weekend before closing again from Monday until Friday, April 17, when it will open with a full bar and kitchen.

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The owners said the decision to open earlier than planned came after strong interest online from people wanting to visit the venue.

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Richard and Terry said: “It has always been a well-established place within the town that recently had dwindled away, but it was still a staple in the area and so when we saw the opportunity we just had to take it.

“The Black Rabbit will be a luxury, nice offering bringing something up market to the area, similar to what Richard has already built with his higher end places.

First look inside the Black Rabbit as it opens in Chester-le-Street (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

“Due to demand and response that we didn’t expect to this level we will be opening for drinks only on Friday (April 10) and a full opening with the kitchen the following week.”