The Eagle pub, which sits at the heart of Plymouth’s city centre, has been given new life thanks to an investment with independent pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
This popular local has been run by Management Partner Emily Gardiner and her family since 2019, and they are thrilled with their new-look pub and couldn’t wait to open the doors to the public again. Emily said: “It feels great to have a shiny new look pub! My ambition has always been to keep growing, attract more guests and improve day by day.
“We’ve already surpassed all expectations we had and I’m so proud of what we’ve built here. The investment has helped massively, we’re seeing new faces, and the feedback from guests has been nothing but positive.”
Having worked at the Eagle for over 10 years, Emily has built up a close relationship with guests and alongside her two sisters and niece, the family has helped the pub to form a glowing reputation within the community.
With thanks to the £50k investment, the Eagle now boasts a brighter, modern and elevated feel, whilst still managing to retain the qualities and authenticity of a traditional city pub. Inside, the new lighting and sound system has been greatly welcomed by artists and musicians, allowing the Eagle to retain its reputation as the go-to place to showcase local talent.
Outside, a new seating area complete with canopy will provide shelter in the cooler months, whilst additional tables will accommodate guests looking to enjoy their drinks throughout the Summer.
“The investment came at the right time,” Emily added. “The pub had started to look a little dated, things were worn and torn so it needed bringing back to life.
“It feels like the pub is more inviting, and we’ve noticed that younger crowds have been visiting too! The location of the Eagle is great in itself, we’re central to a lot of people and as regeneration projects continue across the city, the appeal is only heightened!”
Although the investment has undoubtedly added appeal, the Eagle is already famous for its vast entertainment offering. Their Wednesday Club is notorious across the city, alongside their Celtic Supporters Club which Emily describes as her ‘little big family’, and their Pride based community events which take place throughout the year.
Punch Pubs & Co Operations Manager James Farmer commented: “I am delighted to have rejuvenated a popular, vibrant and much-loved city centre pub. Emily took on The Eagle when the previous Publican retired in 2019. Since then, she has built a very loyal following of customers and turned around the fortunes of the business. I am thrilled to say that we have delivered a pub that we can all be proud of for many years to come.”
Looking to the future, Emily is hopeful that the Eagle’s popularity will continue to grow, confident that it can only get better thanks to the pub’s recent transformation.