The legendary New Albion pub is set to reclaim its spot as the hub of the community when it reopens this March.
The New Albion pub on Liverpool Road, will reopen with a completely fresh look, new Management Partners (MPs) and an exciting new concept.
The pub’s existing team has been retained – much to the delight of locals – and will be supported by leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co, and new MPs, Stephen and Jake as they vow to not only continue the pub’s legacy but make it even better.
The former Cookhouse Pub has been closed since mid-February as Punch Pubs & Co make drastic renovations to bring the community pub back to life.
As part of the £230k investment, the pub is being redesigned to create a warm and inviting environment for the whole community to enjoy.
With a huge focus on sports and entertainment, the new, New Albion, will boast a fantastic sports offering with the addition of 13 screens ready to showcase some of the world’s biggest sporting events. Not only that, the pub is set to become the go-to spot to catch up with friends and fellow fans before local Widnes Vikings games commence.
Stepping in to help transform and reignite the pub is experienced duo Stephen and Jake. The partners have vast experience in the industry and are both local to Widnes, with their joint passion for pubs and people the driving force behind its transformation.
Stephen said: “Jake and I are excited to get stuck in at the New Albion, to meet the team and the community and raise the profile of this incredible pub. We have so many plans up our sleeves and cannot wait to make an impact.
“We know that sports have been a missed opportunity, but one which will play a huge role in the success of our pub. Moving forwards, our focus is on engaging as many local teams as possible, whilst also bringing that family-feel to make it an inclusive and safe space for all.
“The investment plans are incredibly exciting, and we’re looking forward to bringing a fresh vibe – the New Albion is back, and it will be bigger and better than ever before!”
As part of the investment with Punch, the New Albion will boast major renovations throughout, with an all new restaurant space, lounge and games room complete with pool table and darts, in addition to a private function room and its standout feature, a huge beer garden and outdoor bar to seat 150 guests – perfect for the summer months.
Stephen continued: “We’re so excited to see the outdoor space transformed, and we cannot wait to welcome the community to enjoy the sunshine with us. The outdoor bar will be a game-changer for the pub, it’ll be a place of comfort and relaxation, and with a renovated lounge area too, guests can enjoy celebrations and the camaraderie that comes with seeing their favourite sporting stars in action!”
Guests can also enjoy a new and delicious food offering at the pub. Where proper pub classics meet indulgent flavours from hearty pies with buttery mash, or beer-battered fish and chips to chicken platters and salads, Chef, Shaun is looking to ensure there’s a dish on the menu for everyone to enjoy.
Much to the delight of the community, the pub’s popular Sunday roasts will also return. With sumptuous beef, chicken, pork or mushroom & tarragon pudding, served with seasonal vegetables and roast potatoes, expected to be a hit with the locals.
Entertainment will play a pivotal role in the relaunch of the New Albion, as Stephen and Jake will add their unique flair to the renowned quiz night, while also introducing an exciting line-up of live music and events throughout the year.
Additionally, they will continue to foster the strong community spirit by hosting charity nights and fundraisers to raise awareness and support for local causes.
“We’ve always said that we are here to operate the pub, but it’s nothing without the community behind it,” Stephen said. “We need the community to engage with us, and we know that the potential here is huge. The new, New Albion is what the town is looking for, and the changes so far are amazing – it’ll be well worth the wait and we, and the team, cannot wait to welcome guests old and new!”
Punch Pubs & Co Operations Manager, Tina Igo, shared her enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to announce the reopening of the New Albion pub this March. Stephen, Jake, and the team have ambitious plans to ensure it remains the heart of the community and the positive feedback we’ve received on social media has been incredibly encouraging. Exciting times are ahead at the New Albion, and we can’t wait to welcome guests old and new on this journey with us.”
Sneak peaks of the pub’s renovation are being shared on the New Albion’s Facebook page with the investment set to complete on the 24th of March.
