Bar in Ashley Cross opens under new name Cardinals

The former No10 Ashley Cross has had a complete refurbishment under new owners, reopening as Cardinals.

The Nordic and maritime themed bar has been created by jet ski instructors, Jordan Hyde and Rian Tester.

After moving to Dorset from Cheltenham in October, Jordan met Rian and since then the pair have been regulars in Ashley Cross.

“We frequented Ashley Cross a lot and we used to joke about owning a bar together,” said Rian.

But the dream became reality when Jordan spotted a bar for sale whilst Rian was visiting family in the States over Christmas.

After two and a half of months of designing and planning, Jordan and Rian collected the keys just a few weeks ago.

“Cardinals are markers in Nordic terminology, they denote where safe water is,” said Rian.

“We liked the name and the link to the maritime industry.”

Rian said the aim is to entice people to the bar after a nice day out in places such as Studland Bay.

“We have spent a lot of time in Ashley Cross, and it is a very up and coming place,” said Rian.

“It would be nice to be part of that.”

For now, the bar will be serving drinks only and will open from 6pm to 12pm, Thursday to Saturday.

However, Cardinals is currently recruiting a tapas chef with future plans to launch a Mediterranean tapas menu.

Rian and Jordan added their enthusiasm to work with local businesses, including the possibility of hosting monthly events showcasing how produce is prepared from the butchers and fish mongers.

There are also plans for flamenco dancers to perform at the bar in August.

Jordan said: “There is still work to do, we want to keep improving and making things better.”

The pair also hope to branch out with future locations under Cardinals South Ltd.

Cardinals will be celebrating its launch on Saturday, March 30 with a DJ and free prosecco on arrival from 6pm to 8pm.