Regulars at the Half Moon in Derby enjoyed something of a pleasant surprise last week when a corner of the garden of their local was transformed into a VIP area in a moonlit makeover.

Half Moon on Burton Road, 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 David Pike, General Manager of Half Moon. “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. Now with the summer in full flow 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 Half Moon we knew that we could help add a bit of Magners magic with a Made In The Dark Cider Garden Makeover.
“With summer now here, people in Derby 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.”