New look for pub has landed in £100k makeover
A pub has reopened after an investment of more than £100,000.
The Eagle, in Maidstone, opened its doors again earlier this month after husband and wife Gary and Claire Banfield gave their business a fresh look and feel.
The couple were formerly at the helm of The Swan in County Road, just 400 metres away from The Eagle.
The Eagle, in Brewer Street, has undergone a major transformation both inside and out. Externally, it has been painted blue and cream, with updated lighting and signage and new furniture in the outside area. Inside, it seats up to 40 people and has been given an updated look, while still paying homage to its traditional roots.
The pub has been fitted with wooden furniture throughout and there is a games room with a pool table and dart boards. A new TV area has also been installed with both Sky and BT Sports available. Licensees Gary
and Claire grew up in Maidstone and know the area and its residents well.
They arrived at The Eagle in 2021 and have more than eight years’ experience running hostelries.
Since coming to The Eagle, they have worked hard alongside bar manager, Sam Humphries, to make it an integral part of the community. Mr Banfield said he was thrilled to have reopened The Eagle and unveiled its new look to the couple’s family, friends and the Maidstone community “who have all been such huge parts of mine and Claire’s life”. “We’re delighted with the result,” he added. “We have some great plans in the pipeline and look forward to seeing what the future holds.”
The £100k investment was made by pub company Admiral Taverns.
Paul Gornall, from Admiral Taverns, said: “Gary and Claire are such enthusiastic, dedicated licensees which they have demonstrated over the last year and specifically throughout this process.
“I’m confident that their impressive experience in the hospitality industry, combined with their passion for people, will see the pub become an integral part of the community. We wish them every success for what’s to come.”
Alongside drinks, the licensees are hoping to introduce a bar snack menu at the weekends. Gary and Claire also love to run community events and plan to put on plenty of entertainment for customers.
The Eagle hosts friendly darts and pool matches, monthly quiz nights and is looking to introduce monthly musical bingo evenings and karaoke.