Landmark Gastropub The Hawk Reopens Near Ponteland

A landmark gastropub on the A696 near Ponteland has reopened, with its owners promising a warm welcome and relaxed countryside dining.

The Hawk at Higham Dykes had closed suddenly after just six months, but reopened in 2026 following a collaboration built around the Hawkstone brand, serving its beer and cider alongside produce linked to Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat Farm. The venue was previously known as Tomahawk Steakhouse and, before that, Catch Seafood, and many will remember the landmark building as The Waggon Inn.

The new operation includes a bar, restaurant, farm shop and overnight accommodation, creating around 25 jobs. Owners say it is designed to appeal to a broad audience — from couples and families to walkers, cyclists, dog owners and business travellers — with a menu focused on quality Northumberland produce, elevated pub classics, fresh seafood and seasonal dishes.

The head chef said the aim was to create somewhere people can visit regularly, "whether that's for a steak dinner, Sunday lunch, drinks with friends or simply a relaxed stop-off in the countryside." The Hawk's farm shop offers Northumberland produce and selected Hawkstone and Diddly Squat products.

For more places to eat and drink locally, see our best restaurants in Ponteland guide.