Last week, the beloved Lochside pub in Newcastle reopened to the community after undergoing a £115,000 investment with Punch Pubs & Co.
Not only does the pub boast a stunning new look, but it also welcomes new Management Partners, Vicki McEvoy and Kane Holford, who bring a dynamic blend of front-of-house and kitchen expertise. With years of hospitality experience between them, Vicki and Kane are excited to breathe new life into The Lochside and ensure it thrives at the heart of the community for years to come.
After a four-week closure, Vicki was eager to welcome back guests – both familiar faces and curious newcomers – to explore their refreshed local. She said: “The feedback from the community has been so positive. They’re thrilled with the changes to their local and so impressed with its new look, which has made it a brighter and more welcoming space. It’s been great to see new guests enjoying our pub too!”
The renovation spans the entire pub, introducing warm tones, feature wallpapers and patterned blinds that add character and charm. The new aesthetic is consistent with brass pendants and ambient lighting, which creates a welcoming atmosphere – much like the Lochside’s community spirit.
Its newest addition – a Newcastle United Football Club memorial wall – is a standout feature in its own right. A striking tribute to ‘The Magpies’, the wall is adorned with football memorabilia and has already been a hit with football fanatics.
Included within the newly defined sports zone is a new sports bar and raised area featuring a pool table, new dart boards, and a 90-inch screen TV – offering fans an immersive experience that feels like being front and centre at St James’ Park.
While sports and entertainment are a huge focus at The Lochside, Vicki and Kane have thoughtfully adapted their pub’s overall offer to ensure it’s a family-friendly and inclusive space for the whole community, and four-legged friends too. Their newly refreshed lounge area will offer a peaceful escape from the cheer of the beautiful game, providing a cosy, dining and social space for all.
Their new food menu is also winning hearts, with traditional pub classics like beer-battered fish and chips, steak & ale pie and beef lasagne, light bites, and a Sunday roast that’s expected to be a firm favourite.
Vicki added: “We’re delighted to be running our own pub together, and I’m thrilled that our first week has been so successful. We’ve been incredibly busy, and I’m so proud to see all of our hard work pay off. We can’t wait to see what the future has in store!”
Moving forward, Vicki and Kane are committed to ensuring The Lochside remains the community’s cornerstone, inspiring those moments and delighting every guest who walks through their door. With its fresh new look, crowd-pleasing menu, and welcoming atmosphere, the future looks bright for this beloved local spot.