28/09/2026
❤️ After 5 and a half years, it’s time to say goodbye to The Stag Hotel. ❤️
Where do I even begin?
Five and a half years ago, I never could have imagined just how much this little country pub would come to mean to me. What started as a business quickly became so much more. It became a second home, a place full of familiar faces, endless laughs, a few tears, plenty of late nights and memories that I’ll carry with me forever.
To every single person who has walked through our doors over the years, thank you. Whether you were a regular at the bar, popped in for a meal, attended one of our crazy events, lent a hand when we needed it or simply stopped by for a chat, you have all played a part in making The Stag what it has been.
To our incredible staff, past and present, I genuinely couldn't have done it without you. Thank you for putting up with me, for the laughs, the chaos, the long days and the even longer nights. We've been through a hell of a lot together, and I'm so grateful for every one of you.
To our little community of Learmonth, thank you for backing me, supporting my crazy ideas, getting behind our fundraisers and events, and showing me just how special a small country town can be. The support you've shown both myself and The Stag over the years has meant more than you'll ever know.
There have been plenty of highs, a few lows, some bloody hard days and a whole lot of moments I wouldn't change for the world. Running a pub isn't always easy, but the people who have surrounded me throughout this journey have made it all worthwhile.
I'm walking away with so much more than I came in with. Lifelong friendships, countless memories, a few extra grey hairs and a whole lot of love for this place and its people.
While my time behind the bar has come to an end, you're certainly not getting rid of me that easily! I'll still be just around the corner at the post office, so I'll be seeing plenty of your familiar faces.
It's a bittersweet feeling closing this chapter of my life, but I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved together and so grateful to everyone who has been part of the journey.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the last 5 and a half years. Thank you for supporting my business, believing in me, standing by me and making The Stag feel like home.
It's never really been about the pub itself. It's always been about the people who filled it.
Here's to the friendships, the memories, the beers, the laughs and all the stories we'll be telling for years to come.
One last cheers from my side of the bar. 🍻
Much love, Ashlee ❤️
