Marston's revamps beer gardens ahead of pubs reopening in April
Marston’s has spruced up its outdoor garden spaces ready for the easing of restrictions.
In the Black Country and and Staffordshire the Wolverhampton-based pubs group has improved more than 20 pub gardens. The company says each has undergone a bespoke design plan. That means extra heating and lighting systems alongside bigger structures such as orangery-style garden rooms, teepees, marquees, awnings and jumbo umbrellas.
One of the pubs which has had a revamp ahead of April 12 when outdoor opening will be allowed is the Manor House of Whittington at Kinver.
Its manager Hannah McMenemy said: “To be able to welcome guests back soon is so exciting. We have really missed seeing everyone and we can’t wait for people to enjoy themselves here again and reunite with friends and family.”
The focus on these newly re-purposed spaces has been in development since last year following the success and demand for outdoor areas during the summer period. The announcement of Marston’s initiative follows Boris Johnson’s lockdown road map of easing restrictions.
Breweries and pub groups say they have learned the lessons of last year by making it easier for people to meet outside and to order food and drinks without having to walk up to the bar.
Alongside new garden spaces, Marston’s has introduced an online ordering system, Marston’s Tap, for both food and drinks which customers can use during their visit as well as for takeaway services.
The online platform is available across the majority of Marston’s pubs and a full roll out is underway following its success last year. Customers will also have access to toilets and baby changing facilities when on site.
Ralph Findlay, chief executive of Marston’s, said: “We can’t wait to reopen.
“It has been a difficult year for everyone and we are delighted that we will be able to reopen some of our pub gardens and once again hear the laughs and chatter that only a pub community brings.
“Our teams are raring to go and excited to welcome guests back, albeit just in outdoor areas for now.
“We have created new outdoor spaces with a number of new external dining areas to welcome back friends and families.”
Marston’s has an estate of about 1,400 pubs across the UK, but not all Marston’s pubs in England are able to reopen in April due to not having an outdoor space.
All improvement works are due for completion by the end of April.
