The Golden Hind pub in Ipswich, has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to a significant investment from leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
The investment has not only revitalised the pub’s physical space but also strengthened its role as a community hub, something that Publicans Darren and Ryan are passionate about.
Darren and Ryan joined forces to take over the village pub back in 2019. Their contrasting backgrounds have brought a unique blend of experience and fresh perspective, which has earned them multiple award wins and recognition locally and nationally.
Ryan said: “Darren had always worked in the pub industry but had taken a short break. When a friend asked us to cover for them while they were on holiday, it reignited our passion for pubs and the community.
“We both wanted to build a pub with guests at the heart, one where everyone could come to unite, have fun and make memories. Our ambitions escalated, and when we saw that The Golden Hind was available, the decision to dive in was a no-brainer. A community pub was what we wanted, and when we look back on what we’ve achieved over the last five years, we’re proud to say that’s exactly what we’ve created.”
From the outset, Darren and Ryan’s vision of a community pub has seen the Golden Hind become a beloved local institution, and when they learned of Punch’s plans to invest, they began to create their wish list, carefully mapping out ways in which they could elevate their pub business.
The £190k investment has completely transformed their pub’s indoor and outdoor space, although its quintessential characteristics belonging to the grade II listed building have been retained.
Ryan continued: “Our lounge bar was old and dated, but it’s now been completely transformed into a modern area that brings out the pub’s characteristics and original features – even creating a bigger space for dining and seating.
“We’re most proud of our upstairs function space, which was unused and dated. It now boasts a stunning area for our guests to hire out for functions and parties. Outside, we’ve transformed the space with a resin gravel path, making it accessible for all users and child-friendly, too! This is complemented by all-new furniture – it looks fresh and inviting, so all we need now is the sunshine!”
Starting the new year with a completely new look, Darren and Ryan have set themselves up for success with an array of events, fundraisers, and a consistent entertainment schedule throughout the year lined up.
From hosting noughties icons like S Club to showcasing local up-and-coming musicians, entertainment is a massive part of what they do at The Golden Hind, and this year Darren and Ryan are dialling up on that bigger than ever before.
Ryan continued: “Our guests are proud of their local pub, and that feeling is amazing. We know that we’ve built a trusted relationship where they can be honest with what works and what doesn’t, and I think this is part of our USP. The community has a huge input, even down to the food we serve, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without them. What we’ve achieved is because of their continued loyalty and decision to let us be a part of their memories and experiences.”
In addition to creating a lively atmosphere, Darren and Ryan are passionate about supporting local charities. This year, they plan to raise funds for dementia and Alzheimer’s charities, as well as the local oncology unit at Ipswich Hospital.
Their dedication to running a pub that truly sits at the heart of their community has not gone unnoticed. Darren and Ryan have twice been shortlisted for Community Pub of the Year in Punch’s Publican of the Year Awards and have received multiple local accolades, including Best Pub in Ipswich and Best Pub in Suffolk.