When we took on The Courthouse Hotel, we knew it had history, potential, and a lot of work ahead. What we didn’t fully realise — until we stepped into it — was just how much the community cared. And how much we’d come to care too.
Reopening this pub wasn’t just about cleaning up a venue and launching a menu. It was about rebuilding something locals could feel proud of again.
Here’s what we’ve learned along the way.
1. The Community Remembers Everything
From the regulars who knew the old pub inside-out to new locals walking in with curiosity — everyone had a story or a memory to share. Some were positive. Some weren’t.
What mattered most? Listening.
The feedback, the expectations, the encouragement — it all helped shape how we reopened. And it’s still shaping what we do now.
2. Good Food Was Always the Expectation — We Never Lost Sight of That
We didn’t come in guessing what people wanted — we knew.
Hearty meals. Proper portions. Food with flavour and consistency.
From day one, we’ve been focused on delivering reliable, satisfying pub food that doesn’t try to be something it’s not.
Parmas, pies, burgers, wood-fired pizzas — the food locals trust. Simple done right, every time.
3. A Pub is Only as Good as Its People
The team you build makes or breaks the customer experience.
That includes the kitchen, the bar, the floor staff, the ones prepping after hours, and the ones locking up late at night.
We’ve worked hard to create a place where the staff enjoy showing up — and where that energy rubs off on customers. Because when your people are proud to work here, the whole pub feels better.
4. Atmosphere Isn’t an Add-On
We learned that you don’t just “add” atmosphere — you create it.
It’s in the music. The lighting. The mix of families, friends, and familiar faces. The way people are greeted. The way a Sunday session builds from chill to fun without ever trying too hard.
It has to feel right. That’s the part we protect most.
5. You Don’t Just Reopen a Pub — You Rebuild Trust
A lot of people wanted to see The Courthouse succeed again. But they also wanted to see if we were serious. If we’d actually fix the food. Treat the locals with respect. Stick around.
We didn’t walk in expecting automatic loyalty.
We’ve worked for it. Every day, every dish, every shift.
And the response so far? It’s been incredible.
What’s Next?
We’re just getting started. There’s more to do, more to improve, and more to celebrate. So whether you’ve been in already or not yet made the trip — just know this:
We’re building something special at The Courthouse. And we’re doing it for the right reasons.
