Prospect Pubs & Bars opens its second site

The Victoria in Woodham re-opened its doors on Thursday 3 December, following a major refurbishment and joint investment by Prospect Pubs & Bars and Star Pubs & Bars.

Featuring a Covid-safe, 100-cover restaurant and bar plus expansive alfresco eating and drinking area for up to 160 customers, the site also has parking for 40 cars and a child-friendly garden.

Dan Shotton and Mark Draper (pictured) launched Prospect Pubs & Bars in June 2019 following the successful sale of their 15-site strong estate, Redcomb Pubs Ltd, to Young’s. The pair purchased their first Prospect site, The Evenlode in Eynsham, in July 2019. The Victoria is their second site.

“We’re excited to finally be able to open the doors at The Victoria and to bring this iconic neighbourhood pub back into action,” says Draper. “The Victoria has been an integral part of Woodham for well over 100 years, and the interest and enthusiasm we have received from locals during the run up to launch has been incredibly positive.

“The Victoria is a fabulous new addition to our expanding pub company, and it has been great to work in partnership with Star Pubs & Bars on this project. Myself and Dan have spent a number of years creating and developing a strong portfolio of independent pubs, all very much centred around the communities in which they thrive. Never before has this community focus been more important, and it remains an integral part of our future expansion plans.”

The menu at The Victoria focusses on using locally-sourced, premium produce to create best of British pub classics and a range of seasonal specials.