Historic Seaham pub goes back to its old name under new restaurant management

Renovations are taking place at a section of the former Ranch Steakhouse in Stockton Road to create The Mill Inn Restaurant, named after the pub’s traditional name.

One of Seaham’s oldest pubs, dating back to the early 1800s, the Mill Inn has a long history in the town, including being the site of discussions that led to the formation of the North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers to improve safety in mines.

Management of the neighbouring Barn at the Mill Inn, a multipurpose events and function space, including its own cabin-style bar, Hobbit hut and terrace, have now taken over the dining area at the pub.

They have big plans to stamp its restaurant offering on the map with a view to opening the new venue at the end of March.

The team is hoping to open in time for Mother’s Day. In the meantime, the kitchen is open for delivery and takeouts.

Other sections of the pub building are set to be occupied by other businesses following renovations.

Posting a statement, the team said: “We took over the Barn back in July last year. Since then we have had over 100 of your parties including christenings, baby showers and weddings (to name a few) as well as providing Seaham with its own Winter Wonderland.

“We have loved serving you and seeing our Barn grow into what it is now. And we’re only just getting started….. Our next chapter consists of improvement of the facilities we already have as well as adding to this.

“We will be moving into a section of the old ranch building and reopening the Mill Inn as the Mill Inn Restaurant.

“This building has 133 years of history and we’re so excited to steer this ship onwards from here. What to expect?

“We will now have 300 seats across the site including the Barn, restaurant and roof top terraces. This means that there’s always room for you here at the Barn.

“A new restaurant seating area with booths and copious amounts of space for you to spend time with loved ones, whether it is for a special occasion or every day dining.

“Toilet facilities - We will now have an additional set of both male and female toilets which will help with busier periods.

“However, we will not have the whole building and some parts of the ranch will be occupied by other businesses following the renovations.

“This is a great thing for Seaham! One of its oldest pubs with the history it holds returning once again for the people of Seaham. We’re hoping to be open before the end of March! See you soon!”