The John Walker Tavern in Stockton on Tees, County Durham opened its doors this week following a £342k investment.
The full internal transformation of the pub and new name celebrates the town’s historic connection to John Walker the original friction match maker and one-time supplier to King William IV.
Punch, the independent pub operator that completed the investment, also welcomed new publicans to the pub, Joanna Oliphant and Denise Hamilton.
The work completed included new external signage alongside a complete internal refurbishment with areas for eating, drinking and a games section, new lighting, furniture, screens and toilets.
The internal redecoration celebrates the town’s historical connection to John Walker and the Stockton & Darlington railway, the first railway in the world to operate freight and passenger service with steam traction.
Managing director for Punch, Andy Spencer said, ““This is a significant investment by Punch in this town centre community pub with our new Publicans, Joanna and Denise. This pub will be the hub of the community with full accessible facilities incorporated in the investment. We have sport, music and community events planned”.
The pub, which is part of Punch’s Mighty Local retail concept, will be hosting darts teams, pool teams, live sport events, 70’s and 80’s discos, LBGTQ rainbow nights, afternoon karaoke sessions and a new food menu which is served every day.
The investment at the pub is part of a £32m investment programme in community pubs scheduled for this year by independent pub operators Punch.
