the Famous Grouse Hotel, Lincoln

Tonight we celebrated a birthday with a meal at the brand new Famous Grouse Hotel in Lincoln.

On 4th September last year a 7.1 earthquake damaged beyond repair the much loved 125 year old hotel . By the 9th September (when the top photo was taken) demolition had started. The hotel had been the watering hole for the local community and many students from nearby Lincoln University.

The architect for the new hotel retained the village feeling that still exists in Lincoln township by recreating the "country pub" atmosphere with a modern twist. There is a conference room, 10 room accommodation, restaurant and bar. It was completed in October. A more recent extension to the old hotel (seen at the back) was not demolished but is being refurbished and a brick cladding added so that it blends in with the new brickwork.

Tonight the hotel looked resplendent in the sunshine (bottom photo), and it was packed full of people enjoying a drink and a meal.