Christmas cocktail in a camper van? Cleethorpes bar pulling out all the stops for festive season

Forget boring glasses with a fruit garnish, a Cleethorpes bar is serving cocktails in VW camper vans, popcorn buckets and trash cans this Christmas.

Forty One, in Seaview Street, is determined to turn heads during the festive season – one of the most important times of the year for the hospitality industry – by rivalling big-city cocktail bars. “This Christmas, we are getting ready to see as many people through the door as we can and get them into the festive spirit,” co-owner Paige said.

The bar, which has been open for 18 months, has attracted rave reviews and Paige hopes local people will vote with their feet during a crucial time. “Having lost other bars in Cleethorpes recently, it is important for people to support local businesses now more than ever,” she added.

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“Over the festive period we are doing our bottomless brunches and a big Christmas party on December 23, with live music and a DJ. Last year’s was incredible and we wanted to do the same again.

“To top it all off, we have just launched 10 new bespoke cocktails, which includes a Keeping Up With The Kardashians themed cocktail and our Stargazer cocktail served in a VW camper van. On Thursdays we do a two for £13 deal and try to keep our prices in line or lower than other bars in Cleethorpes.”

Paige and Victoria also own the area’s first “speakeasy”, which can be found two doors down from Forty One. The “secret” swanky bar, called Insideout, is disguised as a clothes shop. Customers are expected to answer a riddle to get in and are then welcomed into the intimate space, complete with a cherry blossom tree.

Insideout also offers a range of games such as interactive darts and beer pong.

“A lot of people still don’t know that we’re here and with it being so cold outside, the games inside are a great indoor activity,” Paige said. “We’re open Wednesday to Sunday and bookings are always welcome.”

Victoria, who runs the businesses alongside Paige, has spoken about how locals can support them and others on Seaview Street. She said: “Even popping in for one drink is a massive help but I know in the cost of living crisis people can’t always afford to.

“So just sharing our social media posts or writing a review if you’ve been before are just some of the ways people can support us without it being of any cost to them. Spreading the word and supporting local businesses is all we can ask for this Christmas.”