‘Grandstand’ sports pub reopens in Wolverhampton following major investment
The Castle Inn in Wolverhampton has undergone an exciting refurbishment, reopening as a ‘Grandstand’ sports pub, following an investment of over £409,900.
The much-loved community pub has been transformed with new features, designed to deliver a stadium-style experience on every visit. The refurbishment will include the installation of market-leading technology, such as a new 3-metre-long and 1.8-metre-tall screen, state-of-the-art sound systems, and flexible tiered seating to guarantee a great view of the action.
The Castle Inn invited Owen James to pull the first pint at the pub’s opening. A dedicated community supporter and owner of his own window cleaning business, Owen regularly litter-picks local parks and the cemetery, helps elderly residents during bad weather, provides lifts to those in need, and raised £760 for the New Cross Hospital Children’s Ward with a Christmas Santa sleigh. The pub also welcomed members, coaches, and organisers from AFC Willenhall Children’s Football Team and, alongside Owen, aims to continue supporting local charities and community causes.
The Castle Inn has been decorated with local sports memorabilia. It is on the hunt for photographs and merchandise, giving pub-goers the chance to fill the walls and celebrate the achievements of local sports stars and teams, past and present.
The pub will show all key sporting fixtures, including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, F1, darts, horse racing, you name it, they will show it! Regulation dart boards and pool tables will provide entertainment well after the final whistle, with new competition leagues and ‘free to play’ recreational sessions taking place throughout the week.
A new range of bar food has been introduced, perfect for half-time and for sharing. The ‘Match Day Menu’ will feature hand-held bites, such as chicken wings and nachos, sitting alongside pub favourites such as fish and chips and burgers. The Castle Inn has also refreshed its range of drinks, and all draught beer is available in 2-pint cups.
There will also be the chance for local sports teams to get their hands on a ‘Black Card’, securing them endless chips when they visit for team drinks, and even more rewards if they win their game.
The new Grandstand concept has been introduced after industry research revealed that 8.5m consumers have watched sports games at the pub, and 86% of sports fans say that they watch games at sports pubs due to a livelier atmosphere, better screens, sound, and connecting with friends and family.
Marston’s picked The Castle Inn as one of the pubs to receive the Grandstand makeover due to its involvement with local sports teams, community groups and charities. The refurbishment has created a new and exciting proposition for local sports fans from Wolverhampton and beyond.
Pub partner Chris Cottham said: “We’re excited to be back open and show our locals their new and improved pub! From new screens and menus to involving the local community, there’s loads on offer, and we’re all about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome - whether they’re here for the match, a family meal, or to celebrate with their team after the final whistle.”
