Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum and Distillery in Wooler, Northumberland, will launch its new upscale dining concept, Bēodern, on March 21, 2025, coinciding with the distillery’s second anniversary celebration.

The name Bēodern, pronounced “Bay-od-urn,” derives from Old English for “Dining Hall” and represents an evolution of the popular Ad Gefrin Bistro, responding to customer demand over the past two years.

Reservations for Bēodern are now open. 

Historical Inspiration Meets Culinary Mastery

The concept draws inspiration from the Anglo-Saxon royal court of Gefrin, where guests gathered in timber halls for feasts and celebrations. This historical connection aligns with Ad Gefrin’s mission to showcase Northumbrian hospitality.

Head Chef Olivier Borja, who brings over 30 years of fine dining experience, leads the culinary program. Borja’s impressive background includes work in multiple Michelin-starred restaurants across France, such as 3-star Lucas-Carton and 2-star Hôtel du Crillon.

Just some of the upscale dishes on offer include Homemade Game Terrine with Fig Chutney (to start), Duck Breast with Fondant Potatoes, Pickled Blackberries, Celeriac and Apple Purée (as a main), and Madagascan Vanilla and Tácnbora Whisky Crème Brûlée (desert). 

“From the very beginning, our vision for Ad Gefrin has been to create a place where people can come together, celebrate, and share moments that matter,” said Eileen Ferguson, Co-Founder of Ad Gefrin. “The success of our Bistro over the past two years has shown us the appetite for something more, something that truly reflects the abundance and richness of our region. With Bēodern, we are delighted to take the next step in our journey, offering a space that is both welcoming and refined, where guests can savour the best of Northumbrian produce, crafted with care and creativity.”

Showcasing Ad Gefrin Distillery Products and Local Producers

The menu features the distillery’s own spirits, including Tácnbora Blended Whisky, incorporated throughout dishes like the Madagascan Vanilla and Tácnbora Whisky Crème Brûlée and Seasonal Fruit Crumble with Tácnbora Whisky Crème Anglaise.

Bēodern emphasizes partnerships with local producers, including Particularly Good Potatoes from Turvelaws Farm, artisan bakery Bread and Roses in Alnwick, and the award-winning Doddington Dairy. The program highlights the variety and quality available from Northumberland’s producers. 

The beverage program prominently features Ad Gefrin’s spirits alongside offerings from local producers Marlish Water, Alnwick Brewery, and Cheviot Brewery.

Bēodern will serve dinner Thursday through Saturday, with lunch available daily and Sunday Lunch remaining a specialty. Reservations are now open for the March 21 launch.

Read the full article at Ad Gefrin Distillery Launches Upscale Evening Dining Experience