The Portcullis, Staple Hill, to reopen after makeover

Following a £185,000 investment from pub operator Hawthorn Leisure, the over-250-year-old Portcullis pub in Staple Hill is set to reopen on November 29th.

Having been managed on a temporary basis over the last year, the pub is now set to reopen for good thanks to Hawthorn Leisure‘s investment. At the helm will be Debra Tipper, whose 20 years of experience in managing pubs in and around Bristol includes The Swan in Winterbourne and Hanham’s Cross Keys.

The Portcullis is well-known locally for its live music, and has been completely redecorated both inside and out, including new signage, lighting, furniture and toilet facilities. In a nod to its long history, the original front door has also been reinstated.

There’s a skittle alley to enjoy too, and drinkers can expect a varied range of cask ales, beers, ciders and spirits, as well as live sports via Sky Sports, BT Sport, Racing UK and At The Races.

Commenting on the launch, Debra said: “I can’t wait to see what the locals think of the new and improved Portcullis. It’s almost unrecognisable inside, but we’ve also made sure to retain some of the original features, including the front door. We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old customers to the official reopening – there will be a buffet, and we’ll be staying true to the pub’s tradition for live music with some great musicians as well.”

Hawthorn Leisure operates more than 650 community pubs across England, Scotland and Wales, and the company’s managing director of operations, Mark McGinty, says The Portcullis is exactly the kind of pub they want to see thriving: “This is a classic, community pub with a loyal regular clientele which has been a huge part of the community in Staple Hill for centuries. We were more than happy to invest in The Portcullis to make sure it can continue to be an important community hub, and with Debra’s experience, we’re sure the pub will be a huge hit with the locals.”