In November 2022, three of the Borough’s pubs closed, including the much-loved and needed, Barley Mow.
Now, the nation’s oldest LGBT+ bar is back in business and after a well-attended and successful soft launch, one of Bedford’s staple bars is dressed up and ready to go on Saturday night.
Read: The Barley Mow is back with a promise to reconnect with the LGBT+ community
Established in 1839, the history of the Barley Mow is an extensive one with local historians able to track its roots back to the first half of the 19th century, when gay men used the building as a sanctuary and were able to be themselves.
184 years on, the Barley Mow is under new management with a promise to reconnect with the local LGBT+ community with stunning decor, a new bar team and an owner determined to bring the Barley back to its righteous place, the future looks as bright as the rainbow.
“It’s as good as new”
The Bedford Independent were lucky enough to attend the soft launch on Friday evening and speaking to a few of the regular patrons, it’s clear that the uplift is significant.
New flooring, an upgrade to the outside seating and a wonderful array of flags both outside and along the bar are merely a few of the features that stand out.
The most important feature, however, is the welcoming nature. Regardless of who you are, the new team at the Barley Mow are determined to make the atmosphere as fun and as free as one could hope.
In the four months the Barley has been closed – with windows and doors boarded up – the local LGBT+ community have been yearning for a safe space to party away their weekends.
Speaking to those lucky enough to be invited (or win tickets) to Friday night’s VIP event, the feeling is clear that the local world is a better place with a happy and vibrant Barley Mow.
“It’s as good as new”, said one patron. “This place holds a dear place in my heart and I cannot wait to party to anthems and meet wonderful new people.”
Read: The Barley Mow was the only safe space for queer people to go
Personally speaking, I wholly underestimated the impact the Barley Mow has had on my life.
From the outside looking in, it looks like your run-of-the-mill pub, but inside those four walls are personalities, stories and experiences that can shape an individual – all for the better.
I might not be able to party like a 19-year-old anymore, but upon attending Friday night’s event, I was happily reminded about how important a loving community can be and that, beyond anything, is what makes the Barley Mow unique.
The Barley Mow opens at 8pm Saturday night and is open until the early hours, but the last entry is strictly at 01.30.
Oh, and bring your dancing shoes.
