Proper Pubs invests over £1m in three community pubs

Three pubs across Bournemouth, Uttoxeter and Pontefract have reopened following a combined investment of more than £1m by Proper Pubs, the community-led division of Admiral Taverns. The Athelstan Arms, the Steeplechase and the Travellers Rest relaunched between 30 October and 7 November after extensive refurbishment work that aimed to modernise facilities and strengthen their role as local hubs.

The Athelstan Arms on Cranleigh Road in Bournemouth reopened on 30 October after more than £420,000 was invested in a full interior overhaul, expanded beer garden and a dedicated sports zone.

The Travellers Rest in Featherstone, Pontefract reopened on 6 November following a near-£320,000 upgrade that included refreshed lounge and games areas, a strengthened entertainment set-up and expanded outdoor seating.

Finally, The Steeplechase in Uttoxeter followed on 7 November, relaunching after a £305,000 refurbishment that introduced new fixtures, multiple large screens, a karaoke system and enhanced garden space.

All three sites received new interiors, flooring and furniture, alongside enhanced audio-visual equipment offering Sky Sports and TNT channels. Each site will host regular entertainment, including live music, quiz nights, karaoke and community events. The refurbishments also expanded outdoor areas, with seating capacity increased to support year-round activities.

The three pubs will also continue supporting local initiatives. Operators plan to collect food for local foodbanks, raise funds for defibrillator installations and support Admiral Taverns’ charity partner, Claire House Hospice. 

Proper Pubs has run a series of national initiatives in recent years, including Easter Egg collections, food donations and fundraising that has supported community schemes across the UK.

Matt England, operator of the Athelstan Arms, said: “It’s been a fantastic journey watching The Athelstan’s transformation come to life over the past few months. The pub looks fantastic, and it was a pleasure to welcome our customers, both old and new, back through the doors last week.”

Adam Hollinshead, operator of the Steeplechase, added: “I’m absolutely thrilled with how the refurbishment has turned out – the pub looks absolutely amazing and it was such a joy welcoming the community back through the doors last week.”

Simon Davies, operator of the Travellers Rest, concluded: “We’re thrilled to have reopened the doors to the Travellers Rest and the response from the community has been incredible. Thanks to the refurbishment, we’ve been able to create a fantastic hub where people can come together to enjoy brilliant live sport and entertainment.”