A long-awaited venue shaped by friendship, loss and determination is preparing to welcome its first guests, promising a new kind of social space built on quality, atmosphere and connection.
Crowbar, a project years in the making, will open its doors in North Devon after an extensive transformation of a once-derelict building into a rustic, characterful setting focused on food, drink and community.
The building was purchased in 2021 by Ian Gibb, who said the site immediately stood out to him despite having no clear plan at the time.
Ian said: “The building was just one of those places that just stops you in your tracks. I did not know exactly what it would become, but I knew it had to be something.”
The idea for Crowbar developed through conversations between Ian and two close friends, Quint and Bert, who shared a vision for a different kind of venue in the area.
Ian said: “We kept coming back to the same thought. Quint ran his own gin distillery, Bert craved a microbrewery, and I enjoyed cooking on open fire, and had this unused derelict building.
“We all agreed that we need more places for grown-ups, somewhere with proper seasonal food, locally brewed drinks, a cosy feel, and no big screens.
“Somewhere where people could really connect and just enjoy being.”
The venue’s name draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape. Looking west from Northam, the sandbank known as the Bar has long challenged mariners, while to the east, Crow Point’s lighthouse has guided vessels safely to shore.
Ian said the combination of these landmarks led to the name Crowbar, reflecting both the rugged coastline and the welcoming atmosphere the team hopes to create.
However, the journey to opening has been marked by significant challenges. Bert stepped back from day-to-day operations, remaining involved as brewer-in-residence, while sadly Quint – the much loved distiller – died unexpectedly during the project.
Ian said: “Quint was a huge part of this.
“There were moments where it felt impossible to carry on without him.
“But in the end, finishing Crowbar became something we had to do, for him as much as for ourselves.”
To bring the project to completion, Ian assembled a team including Mark and Janine, formerly of The Yard in Appledore, known locally for their focus on quality food and hospitality.
Mark said: “From the moment we got involved, it just felt right.
“Ian had created the heart of the place. We have just helped bring it into focus.
“There is a real sense of purpose here.”
Janine added: “It has been a true team effort.
“Not just us, but everyone behind the scenes, the chefs, the front-of-house staff, and all the people who have believed in what this could be.”
Local builders, tradespeople and supporters have also played a role in transforming the building, contributing to what Ian described as a community-led effort.
Ian said: “We could not have done this without them.
“So many people gave their time, their skills, and their support.
“It really does feel like something the whole community has had a hand in.”
Crowbar will offer seasonal, locally sourced food cooked over open flames, alongside a selection of gin, cocktails and craft beers. There are also plans to introduce a small on-site microbrewery, continuing Bert’s original ambition.
Ian said: “It is about quality without pretence.
“A place where you can come for a quiet drink, a great meal, or a long evening with friends and family and feel completely at home.
“Dogs are welcome too.”
Doors are set to open on Friday, April 3, as the team prepares to welcome its first visitors and begin the next chapter of the project.
Ian said: “We have built something we are really proud of.
“It has not been easy, but it has been worth it.
“Now we just want people to come in, enjoy it, and make it their own.”
Bookings are available via www.crowbarltd.co.uk.
