Family with 40 year link take over beloved Anglesey pub!

North Wales Chronicle

a day ago

Hannah-Louise Kirkpatrick, her husband Iain Kirkpatrick, and her father Chris Smith took over the management of The Ship Inn, Red Wharf Bay, in March. However, their connection to the quaint establishment stretches back more than 40 years - Chris and Hannah-Louise have been visiting the venue since Hannah was a child.
Hannah has been coming to the bay itself since she was three-weeks-old - she has just turned 41. The family have enjoyed many special occasions at the pub over the years.
Hannah said: "They didn't allow children in the pub when I was a child but as soon as I was allowed in, pre-smoking ban, we used to enjoy family time there, especially for the annual Easter bonnet competition.
"I have been coming to the bay since I was three-weeks-old with my family. We came to my grandad's chalet on St David's on the bay for a few weeks in the summer every year for our annual holiday. We loved it so much.
"After many years of family fun, my parents bought a chalet (a used chalet from The Warren) and had it sited on St David's (both sites were owned by Haulfryn). I was about nine then. My parents then bought a house in the bay and now my dad Chris and Sonia, his wife and my amazing step mother from the island Star, live in Benllech and we stay at the house in the bay.
Family holidays in the bay! Hannah's father Chris, Hannah's little sister Lydia-Grace, older sister Laura-Jane and Hannah - with the 80s Bumbag! (Image: Hannah-Louise Kirkpatrick) "I'm not sure what age we were actually allowed in the pub but we are now the custodians of the venue and the special memories and stories created here.
"We are very passionate about creating special memories in this new chapter and sharing the stories people have and what makes this place special.
"The island is our family's special place - our home, and what makes us tick."
The trio is being supported by Katie Smith, who has joined The Ship Inn as operations director. Katie, originally from North Wales, has worked in hospitality since the age of 12.
Over the years, she has worked across a wide range of hospitality businesses in both operational and strategic roles.
Katie said: "It's a privilege to be part of such an iconic place.
"Hannah-Louise, Iain, and Chris officially took over The Ship Inn in March 2025. They bring with them a mix of creative, commercial, and operational experience from various industries.
"They're very hands-on and passionate about great food, warm service, and preserving the heart of The Ship Inn while evolving it for the next generation of visitors.
"They've made decades of memories here so when the opportunity came to take it on, they felt it was a real 'meant to be' moment.
Hannah's sister Laura-Jane, Hannah's dad Chris Hannah finding shells (Image: Hannah-Louise Kirkpatrick) "For all of us involved, The Ship Inn represents so much more than just a pub – it's a cornerstone of the community, a place where locals, holidaymakers and families have come together for generations.
"That sense of heritage, combined with the chance to breathe fresh energy into its next chapter, was a huge part of the appeal for the family."
Hannah, Iain and Chris said it is a "huge honour and responsibility' to be part of The Ship Inn's next chapter - and one they don't take "lightly".
Head Chef James Archer is passionate about championing local produce and crafting dishes that are both comforting and elevated (Image: The Ship Inn / Submitted)
Katie said: "We're all aware of the affection people have for The Ship Inn and we feel it ourselves.
"For us, it's about protecting that sense of place and belonging, while evolving to meet the needs of today's guests."
The new management team have already starting making changes to The Ship Inn to make it more family-friendly and dog-friendly.
They are in the process of refreshing the events calendar and have plans to introduce regular live music and seasonal 'pop-ups'.
"The décor will be evolving gradually too," Katie said.
"Still keeping that classic coastal charm, but with some brighter, more contemporary touches and nods to our nautical setting."
The pub has appointed head chef James Archer who has worked in several "top-rated" kitchens across the UK.
The Ship Inn is in an incredible coastal location (Image: The Ship Inn / Submitted) Katie said: "James is passionate about championing local produce and crafting dishes that are both comforting and elevated.
"Our new menu, which launched on June 25, is rooted in fresh, seasonal ingredients and great flavour.
"Customers will still find beloved classics like fish and chips, but alongside that, we're introducing some lighter coastal dishes, creative vegetarian and vegan options, and new desserts that celebrate the best of the season."
The Ship Inn is introducing some lighter coastal dishes, creative vegetarian and vegan options (Image: The Ship Inn / Submitted) Katie emphasised that the team has 'no intention of changing the soul" of The Ship Inn.
"We know The Ship Inn means so much to so many," she said.
"We want to build on the best of what's always been here: a warm welcome, quality food and drink, and a spectacular setting. At the same time, we're investing in the future – whether that's through new menus, more inclusive events, or making sure the pub is a place where all generations feel at home. We want to celebrate the stories that have come before us while creating space for new memories to be made.
"We're incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us so far - from the local community to loyal regulars and first-time visitors.
"We've had a fantastic start and are full of excitement for what's to come."