The popular Engine Yard retail development at Belvoir Castle was officially opened on Sunday 2 September with a spectacular launch party, attended by actress and model Liz Hurley.
The final retailers, including homewares specialist Margo and Plum, Jorge Artisan Foods, and the Duchess’ Gallery, as well as the luxury Belvoir Casa Spa, opened for business for the first time on Sunday.
The destination will also host the 45 West gin bar, founded by the creators of Burleigh Gin, due to open in the coming weeks.
They join the existing venues which have all opened in the last few weeks to a great reception from the public including, the Idle Mole plant centre, chocolatier Cocoa Amore, premium coffee supplier Cherizena, Crafts4Kids, butcher and farm shop the Country Victualler, and The Fuel Tank café.
Speaking ahead of the official launch, the Duchess of Rutland, CEO of Belvoir Castle and the inspiration behind the project, explained that she hopes the Engine Yard will become a hub for the local community and a must-visit destination for visitors from further afield.
Her Grace said:
“After so much hard work over the course of the project, it feels fantastic to be able to officially open the whole development to the public as part of a double celebration on my birthday. It is amazing to think back to the collection of dilapidated buildings, once used to service the Castle, which have become a vibrant centre for skilled entrepreneurs.
“We are always looking to provide more reasons for people to spend a day at the Castle, and are delighted that the Engine Yard is now able to offer something unique in the region. We want this to be a place for the local community to socialise and a destination for food, drink and crafts enthusiasts and there is still more to come.”
Further plans are afoot for a country pursuits retailer, stocking shooting supplies and fishing tackle, a gents’ outfitter, an antique furniture shop, and an intricately designed garden around the Engine Yard.
The space will also host a ‘wellness wagon’, a restored gypsy caravan offering holistic therapies and treatments, such as palm reading and mindfulness, and the Fuel Tank café will welcome a range of pop up restaurants from leading chefs.
To keep up to date on the latest news from the Engine Yard, visit the website: www.engineyardbelvoir.
The Engine Yard is a ten-minute drive from the A52, 15 minutes from Grantham and Melton Mowbray, 40 minutes from Nottingham, and easily accessible from the A1. Stores are open seven days a week and free parking is available for visitors.
