Refurbishment puts pub back on Tracks
LIVE MUSIC TO CONTINUE AT ALDERSHOT VENUE
AN Aldershot pub has closed to undergo a major makeover, and it will eventually re-open with a new name.
The Funky End, in Station Road, has closed for a £265,000 refurbishment. The pub will be completely revamped inside and out, and will re-open serving food and with a new name, Tracks.
This name is a nod to reflect the venue’s music credentials as well as its proximity to the railway station. The makeover will also include the renovation the exterior of the prominent building, which dates back to the 1860s.
The property was originally part of The Southwestern Hotel, which was built by the London & Southwestern Railway in the 1860s when the railway was being constructed. This will be reflected in the pub’s new interior, which will commemorate its past.
Having taken over The Funky End in November 2021, owner Vicrum Gurung said he put in a lot of effort to get it re-opened after the pandemic. He is aiming for the pub to become a central part of the town’s live entertainment scene, hosting music four times a week including an acoustic evening, karaoke, an open mic night showcasing local up-and-coming talent, and live bands at weekends spanning all genres from music to soul. Rock and roll bingo and quiz nights are also on the cards.
He said: “It was sad to see such a prominent pub boarded up.
“It’s a beautiful old building with a lovely atmosphere and a flexible space that lends itself to live performances. Many people were concerned for its future and we’ve had tremendous support from residents in bringing it back to life. We couldn’t have done it without them; we’re very grateful.
“The investment will help us take the pub to the next level and establish it as one of the best live music venues in the area that all generations of music lovers can enjoy. There’s a lot of excitement about it – one of the regulars even came up with the pub’s new name.”
Inside, the redecoration will include new furniture, flooring and lighting aiming to make the venue more contemporary, welcoming and comfortable.
With Aldershot’s music-lovers in mind, the large wooden bar will be reduced in size to increase capacity on performance nights, and a high-spec sound system will be installed to improve the acoustics.
A new kitchen means the pub will be able to serve freshly prepared food ranging from burgers and gourmet sandwiches to salads and sharing platters.
The project will overhaul the cellar, too, installing state-of-theart dispense equipment to ensure consistently perfect pints.
The outside will be repainted with new signage and lighting.
Richard Foster, Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager for Aldershot said: “Vicrum is passionate about the pub and has done a tremendous job of revitalising it. We’re delighted to be backing him to make it even better.
“Tracks will be a perfect spot for commuters and visitors to the town centre wanting good food and drink during the day, as well as a fantastic place for a great night out.”
It is hoped the new-look Tracks will open in late-March, creating five new jobs in the town too.