Regulars at the Rose in Bedford enjoyed something of a pleasant surprise last month when a corner of the garden of their local was transformed into a VIP area in a midnight makeover.

The Rose on the High Street, was selected as one of a handful of pubs in the country to be treated to a secret garden makeover by cider makers Magners. The transformation, part of a national initiative run by Magners called “Magners ‘Made in the Dark’ Cider Garden” reflects the idea that all the best things are made in the dark, just like Magners in its sealed oak barrels.

Gone are some of the picnic benches and in their place are bespoke rattan hanging chairs, illuminated crate tables, a magical fairy lit pergola, comfortable outdoor cushions and beautiful, strategic planting.

“We had some drawings of how the garden might look when it was finished but we’re bowled over by the end result”, said Paul Dawson, General Manager of The Rose. “Keeping the garden makeover a secret from our customers beforehand took some doing but it has been well worth it as they’ve been very impressed by the transformation and a few of our facebook fans have already been able to enjoy our new VIP area. We now hoping the rain has stopped for the summer and our customers can get outside and enjoy it”.

“A big thank you to the team at Magners who worked so hard to deliver the results in just one night. They were like something off a TV makeover programme, making the whole process seem quick and effortless.”

Head of Marketing at Magners, Kirsty Hunter comments, “When we saw the garden of the Rose we knew that we could help add a bit of Magners magic with a Made In The Dark Cider Garden Makeover.
“With summer hopefully on the way, people in Bedford will have a great new location to enjoy a Magners in with their friends.”

“The Made In The Dark campaign is all about making great things happen in the dark that can be enjoyed during the day, like our cider, so we really hope that people enjoy the new look garden.”