Brakspear
Brakspear has opened its first managed pub in London, the Pocket Watch in Shepherds Bush, which transfers across from its tenanted estate following a major refurbishment.
Brakspear has aimed to give the pub’s traditional Victorian interior a contemporary edge. Etched glass windows and period colour palette are contrasted with modern lighting and industrial furniture.
Broadband and charging points allow customers to spend time on laptops or tablets. Entertainment includes big screen TVs, where sports fans, friends and families can watch big tournaments as well as less mainstream sports, with Aussie Rules football catering for the area’s Australian population.
Brakspear chief executive Tom Davies said: “The demographic of Shepherds Bush has changed dramatically over recent years, creating an exciting opportunity for us. We’ve reinvented the pub from traditional boozer to ‘third place’, where customers can enjoy a drink or a quick bite, chat with friends and maybe watch some live sport.”
Robinsons
The Dane Bank, Denton, has reopened following an investment from Robinsons Brewery that aimed to emphasise the pub’s traditional fittings.
The 1930s theme features a new walnut bar top with columns, ornate clocks, historical photos, timber flooring and new lighting.
The signage has been replaced with Robinsons’ trademark copper branding and the beer garden has received a new planting scheme with upcycled seating areas.
Robert Lester, Licensee of the Dane Bank said:“The refurbishment looks fantastic, I would even go as far to say that it’s one of the best ones that Robinsons have done so far. Since we opened we’ve had amazing feedback from our customers."
Enterprise
Enterprise pub the White Hart in Weston-in Gordano re-opened following a £450,000 joint investment with licensees Mike and Chris Yeatman.
Enterprise has carried out a total refurbishment of the main bar area, kitchen and toilets, while the licensees have invested in a gastro food and pizza offer.
The garden also features a tepee with seating for up to 50 people.
A separate garden bar, small village shop and first-floor private dining room and snug lounge have also been introduced by the new licensees, whilst The White Hart’s gardens have been laid with artificial turf.
Mike Yeatman said: “We’ve already received a party booking from the airline as crew spotted the tepee as they were flying out of Bristol.
“It’s just another way of us maximising every part of the site so no space is wasted, and regardless of whether customers are in the pub, garden or tepee they will be able to relax in a fantastic environment.”
Fuller's
Fuller’s has reopened The Hind’s Head, Aldermaston, Berkshire, after restoring the 15th Century coaching inn.
The pub has retained its traditional quirks, but added modern touches. The 15 boutique bedrooms have undergone refurbishment.
The introduction of a new room, The Officers Mess, features IT facilities ideal for corporate evens, wedding parties, private dining and standing canapé receptions for up to 50 people.
For larger parties, the main dining and bar areas offer space for up to 100 people.
Fuller's has also opened The Admiral Nelson following extensive refurbishment under manager Victoria Young.
Shepherd Neame
19th century pub The Swan in Maidstone has reopened following an £80,000 refurbishment b Shepherd Neame.
Work included redecorating the bar area by introducing a new back bar display and wood effect flooring.
A log burning stove was installed in the snug area, which now has flagstone flooring.
The toilets, lighting and decorations have been updated, and the exterior has been repainted.
New licensee Anna-Marie Snell said: “I was ready to get back into work, and started looking around for pubs in the area. As soon as I walked in The Swan, I knew it was the right one.
"It had a really friendly atmosphere, and was in a great location. I also liked the idea of taking over the pub after the refurbishment work, as it gave me a clean slate which I could put my stamp on.”
Castle Rock
Castle Rock Brewery opens its biggest pub yet, The Embankment - the former home of the Boots Social Club at Trent Bridge, Nottingham.
The site has seen a £600,000 refurbishment, and Boots' memorabilia has been retained to help reflect the building's age and its place in Nottingham's history.
The new bar, The Dispensary, attempts to recreate an old chemist's shop with a mural at one end and contemporary pictures, friezes and furniture.
The trading areas cover 5015 sq ft on three floors.
Speaking for the operators, Castle Rock Brewery managing director, Colin Wilde says: "By retaining all its fascinating features; its oak panelling, stained glass windows and fine décor, we pay homage to its former life as a chemists' shop and social club."