Is the Cat & Fiddle getting a makeover?

Famous biker meeting spot, the Cat & Fiddle pub, could be set for a makeover and revival if bold new plans get the go-ahead. Situated on the A537 between Buxton and Macclesfield, it closed in December 2015 after a series of unsuccessful tenancies.

But now, serial entrepreneur and lifelong biker Peter Strutton has produced a detailed plan for the inn, which first opened in 1813, to be redeveloped as a motorcyclist and cyclist destination.

A two-wheeled adventure hub

“My plan is for a ‘two-wheeled adventure hub’, aimed at not just bikers but also cyclists and hikers,” said Peter, 51. It would ultimately comprise not just a café, although this would come first, but also a workshop, storage area and event destination.

“I’d heard it was empty and, as I’d been considering moving into a motorcycle-type business, looked into it and went for a viewing. It was an awful day and it’s in an awful state but even so we were turning bikers away and it’d been closed for three years. I then started looking into it seriously.”

Here’s a rough idea of Peter’s plans to revive the historic venue:

The ‘adventure-hub’ plan is the result, currently being considered by owners Robinson’s Brewery. “They don’t want to sell it for the moment. They want to lease it but not put too much money in.”

Without Robinson’s financial help Strutton reckons a £400,000 investment will be required. Crowdsourced funding is another possible solution, with Peter very keen to work with other people. “This has the opportunity to be a wonderful biking community project and has the potential to be a great business, too.”

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