Ten Years On: Kate Lane on the Baiting House Anniversary
This summer marks ten years since we reopened the doors of The Baiting House. To mark the occasion we sat down with owner Kate Lane for a quiet chat about what the anniversary means to her.
Q: Ten years – how does that feel? “It feels like yesterday in some ways, and a lifetime in others. When we first took it on, the place was derelict – boarded up, damp, and unloved. Turning it into what it is today has been the biggest project of my life. I’m incredibly proud that we’ve created something the local area can be proud of again.”
Q: The building clearly means a lot to you personally. “Yes, it does. My dad was born in Upper Sapey and went to school just down the hill in Stanford Bridge. As a little girl I have very fond memories of sitting outside the old Baiting House with a bottle of pop and a pack of crisps while my parents chatted inside. It was always part of village life. To be the one who brought it back to life feels quite special.”
Q: What’s been the biggest challenge over the ten years? “Keeping the soul of the place while making it work commercially. We wanted it to stay a proper country inn – somewhere locals feel comfortable popping into for a drink or a meal, but also somewhere visitors would enjoy. Adding the lodges with hot tubs came later, but the heart of it has always been good food, a warm welcome and looking after people.”
Q: What are you most proud of? “Honestly, that we’ve created somewhere that feels like it belongs here. It’s not flashy or pretentious. It’s just a lovely place to stay or eat, run by people who care. Seeing guests return year after year, and hearing locals say how glad they are that it’s back, makes all the hard work worthwhile.”
Q: Any plans for the anniversary? “We’re marking the ten years with a special weekend in late May. There’ll be live music, a special BBQ using plenty of local produce, and a few nods to dishes we served when we first opened. Nothing too grand – just a proper relaxed celebration with good food, drink and music. Everyone’s welcome.”
Kate’s connection to Upper Sapey runs deep, and it’s clear the Baiting House is more than just a business to her. It’s a full-circle story: from childhood memories to restoring a village landmark for the next generation.
We’re quietly looking forward to the next ten years. If you’ve been meaning to visit, this summer – and particularly the late May weekend – feels like the perfect time.