Old Carlisle post office to reopen as ‘relaxing’ restaurant and lounge bar

An old 20th-century post office building in Carlisle is opening its doors this week as a restaurant and lounge bar.

Penny Blue, named after one of the world’s first postage stamps, will have interiors featuring vintage post office artefacts and a mix of table and booth seating.

Set up by the minds behind Carlisle aparthotel The Halston, the venue will offer tapas and grill dishes along with original and classic cocktails, spirits and wines.

Dominique Harrison, who co-owns both Penny Blue and The Halston, said: “The brand-new restaurant will be a ‘food and lounge’ concept combining relaxing modern interiors with an open kitchen, high tables, bar and private dining area.

“The name ‘Penny Blue’ is a nod to the heritage of the building; both the restaurant and The Halston were previously Carlisle city’s post office.”

She added: “Penny Blue was the name of one of [Britain’s and the world’s] first stamps.”

Penny Blue will launch on Thursday (October 26).

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