Pop-up pub returns to the racecourse

Big screen racing in Paddock beer garden from April 24

FOLLOWING the success of last year’s popular Pub in the Paddock, Newbury Racecourse has announced five initial dates for the return of the pop-up beer garden this spring.

The Newbury venue welcomed more than 3,000 visitors to the racecourse last summer to enjoy away racing and sports coverage on the big screen overlooking the paddock and lawn areas.

There will be socially distanced seating pods, for up to six individuals, along with deckchair spaces, offering views of the big screen.

An outdoor bar and food concessions will also make a welcome return for anyone looking to enjoy the reopening of outdoor hospitality.

Marketing director for Newbury Racecourse Harriet Collins said: “We are delighted to be welcoming back our Pub in the Paddock for 2021 on selected dates.

“We were unsure how popular it would prove to be last summer, but it was fantastic to welcome Annual Members, many of our residents, regular racing customers as well as several first-time visitors to the racecourse and while we continue to adhere to social distancing measures and restrictions on any indoor hospitality, we thought it would be welcome to bring back the pub so that people can enjoy the abundance of outside space we have on offer as we get ready to welcome spectators back for the live action from June 10.”

Aligned to Government guidelines around pubs reopening for outside hospitality from April 12, people will be able to book areas for up to six people or two different households up until May 17, when restrictions will be lifted on outdoor gatherings of up to 30 people.

All customers will be asked to use hand sanitiser on entry and adhere to social distancing rules at all times.

Cashless payments only are being accepted.

The pop-up beer garden will require a £2.50 per person deposit, which will be redeemable against the first drinks bill.

There are walk-ups available, but people are advised to reserve their seating area in advance to guarantee a space with good views of the big screen.

Dates and opening times: Saturday, April 24 (noon-8pm): Horseracing: ITV coverage of Jump Season Finale from Sandown Park

Saturday, May 8 (noon-8pm): Horseracing: ITV coverage from Ascot/Haydock

Saturday, May 22 (noon-8pm): Horseracing: ITV coverage from Newmarket/Haydock

Saturday, May 29 (noon-8pm): Football: Champions League Final

Saturday, June 5 (noon-8pm): Horseracing: Investec Derby from Epsom Downs Racecourse

Visit newburyracecourse.co.uk for more details or to reserve your space.