Wetherspoon has revealed plans to open 15 new pubs across the UK in a major expansion and franchise project. The chain will work alongside The Papas Group to deliver the new sites, with one set to open as soon as October 1.
The first new pub will welcome customers at Gateway Park, in Lincoln, with others set to open in Bristol, Cramlington and Stockton-on-Tees in October and November. While some of the exact locations are yet to be unveiled, the new pubs will sit close to where people live and work, outside of traditional high streets. Wetherspoon already runs a similar partnership with Haven Holiday Parks, which allows them to operate pubs within their locations. The Five Stones opened at Primrose Valley holiday park in March 2024 while other pubs have since opened at Devon Cliffs, Cleethorpes Beach, Kent Coast and Haggerston Castle.
Wetherspoon commercial director Michael Barron said: “We are delighted to have signed agreements with The Papas Group. We are looking at further opportunities and are confident that more franchise agreements will be signed.”
Andrew Papas, director of The Papas Group, added: “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with Wetherspoons to bring 15 new pubs to life across the UK.
“These aren’t just any pubs they’re beloved community spaces, thoughtfully located outside the traditional high street, yet right at the heart of where people live, work, and gather.”
Wetherspoon has opened pubs in Marlow in Buckinghamshire, Douglas in the Isle of Man, and Walham Green in Fulham Broadway in recent times. New pubs will also open later this month as part of the separate expansion plans.
However, the chain has also put six older pubs up for sale. These locations will continue serving punters until new owners are found.