Wicklow operators Sam Ingham-Myers and his brother Nick took over the iconic pub, in the Beardy Street Mall, in November.

Since then, they have been renovating the kitchen and bars in a bid to restore the pub to its former glory.

“The Newie is an institution in Armidale,” Sam Ingham-Myers said yesterday.

“It was where Peter Allen performed - and we still have the piano he played - and everyone has at least one fond memory of golden times here.”

Established in 1857, the New England Hotel has changed hands three times in the past decade.

But Mr Ingham-Myers said he was “in it for the long term”, introducing some of the innovations which he said had turned around the fortunes of the Wicklow Hotel, which he has operated since November.

“A key ingredient to running a successful hotel is good food, good service and cleanliness,” he said.

While the front bar and lounge will be open for business from February 2, the bistro, which can hold up to 140 patrons, will open in March.

The Ingham-Myers are from Queensland and Sam said a main attraction of taking on the running of the Newie was the city of Armidale.

“It’s a smart town and there’s a big demand for eating out and entertainment,” he said.

“We also have young families and know schooling is second to none; it’s a great environment for children.”