Bridgnorth pub reopens to locals after restoration
A popular pub has reopened after undergoing a restoration as a new Joule's Brewery's Taphouse.
The Shakespeare Inn, in Castle Street, Bridgnorth, has opened its doors again after months of restoration to transform it.
The restoration has focused on creating a pub for the community and people visiting Bridgnorth.
Joule's commissioned an array of traditional stained-glass windows which were created by Paul Georgiou, whose work can be seen in many Joule's Pubs, signed off by his mark of the honey bee depicting the pub as the honey pot of the community.
A key part of the refurbishment has been the creation and restoration of 'the Boathouse' which is a nod to Bridgnorth's oldest society, Bridgnorth Rowing Club, in 1865. The Shakespeare is now sponsoring the rowing club and will host an array of fundraising evenings in support.
The Boathouse - which is tucked away across the beer courtyard - forms a new part of the Shakespeare for visitors to enjoy Sunday lunches, community events and it offers a place for local clubs and societies to meet.
Marie Poole, property manager, said: "We are proud to have many craftsmen who contribute to all our Taps and have such joy in their work.
"Our projects are very much a team effort, we don't have any designers, each of our tradesmen put their own ideas into the work and I hope people will see the care and research that has gone into the restoration of the Shakespeare."
The pub is being run by landlords Tony and Gill Williams, who have moved from Joule's Taphouse the Bricklayers Arms, in Shrewsbury, after six years.
Mr Williams added: "We are very excited about the refurbishment of this great old pub and I am looking forward to bringing our winning formula from the Bricklayers Arms in Shrewsbury, to the Shakespeare, focusing on great beers and wines, great locally sourced food and excellent service.
"We look forward to meeting all our new customers, who will not only be customers but also become friends.
"Between Gill and me, we have nearly sixty years' experience in the trade and along with Joule's, we hope that our combined love of the pub, will make the Shakespeare the best place to be in town."
