‘We’re so excited’ – first look inside Worcester pub after £270,000 transformation

A PUB has reopened with a new look and a fresh sports focus after a major £270,000 refurbishment.

The Portobello Inn, on Bransford Road in Worcester, officially reopened on November 4 as a ‘Grandstand’ sports pub.

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The relaunch is part of Marston’s new pub concept and follows a £270,000 investment that has transformed the venue into a dedicated destination for live sport.

The pub has also launched a new menu to go alongside the revamp. (Image: The Portobello In)

Stuart Burbidge, operations manager at Marston’s, said: “We’re so excited to show off the new and improved pub.

“With a calendar of sports up ahead, The Portobello Inn will be the perfect destination to get involved in a big event atmosphere and soak up the action, especially thanks to some amazing new technology, food and drink offers, and events.”

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The refurbishment includes multiple large screens, a state-of-the-art sound system, and tiered seating to ensure every guest has a clear view of the action.

A brand new pool table has also been installed in the venue. (Image: The Portobello In)

The beer garden has also been upgraded with outdoor TVs, allowing customers to follow the game both inside and out.

Customers can order food and drinks through Marston’s ‘Order & Pay’ app, so they won’t miss a moment of the action.

The pub has been decorated with sports memorabilia, and is inviting the public to contribute photos and merchandise celebrating local teams and athletes.

The Portobello Inn’s new sports concept has seen the arrival of TV screens. (Image: The Portobello In)

To mark the reopening, The Portobello Inn invited Bill Davidson, president of the St John’s Royal British Legion, to pull the first pint.

Mr Davidson was recognised for his charitable work, including raising more than £40,000 for Acorns and other causes.

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The pub will show a full line-up of sporting fixtures across football, rugby, cricket, tennis, F1, darts, and horse racing.

Dart boards and pool tables offer entertainment beyond the final whistle, with competition leagues and free-to-play sessions planned throughout the week.

The pub now has TV screens both inside and outside. (Image: The Portobello In)

The updated menu includes light bites such as chicken wings and nachos, along with pub classics like fish and chips, grills, and burgers.

All draught beer is now available in two-pint cups.

A new ‘Black Card’ scheme will offer local sports teams bottomless fries during team visits, with further rewards available for match victories.

Marston’s selected The Portobello Inn for the Grandstand concept due to its strong ties with local sports clubs, community groups, and charities.