Investment To Reopen Historic Preston Pub

A £150,00 refurbishment starts next week to reopen a prominent pub in the centre of Preston that has been closed since late September. 

The investment in The Stanley Arms on Lancaster Road will transform the well-known local, turning it into a premium social space that specialises in sports and entertainment and serves an extensive selection of drinks. The project is being carried out by Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Chorley-based Blind Tiger Inns, who also run The Station pub on Butler Street in Preston.

Work starts on 11th November and The Stanley Arms will open later in the month, creating 10 new jobs. 

The refurbishment will completely renovate the outside of the Grade II listed building, bringing out its character and enhancing the local area. New café-style seating at the front, as well as a new awning, signage and lighting will add to The Stanley Arms’ smart look. 

A dramatic makeover of the inside of The Stanley Arms will retain features such as the old fireplace and paneling and complement them with a stylish contemporary décor incorporating stripped timber floors, stunning tile work and hand-painted murals. There will be high-spec screens showing Sky, TNT and pay-per-view channels for sports enthusiasts, whilst state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems will ensure a brilliant atmosphere and entertainment by night.

The Stanley Arms will be drinks only and will offer a wide choice, ranging from premium beers, wines and spirits to cocktails and coffee.

Says Blind Tiger Inns managing director, Chris Tulloch: “The Stanley Arms has always been a well-known pub but has lost its way in recent times. Our aim is to put it back on the map as a fantastic place where people can safely enjoy sports, socialising and a great time in beautiful surroundings. 

“Preston is continuing to go from strength to strength with all the recent regeneration and further developments, such as the Animate cinema and leisure complex, under way. We want The Stanley Arms to be part of the improvements and to add to all the city has to offer.”

Comments David Pritchard, Star Pubs’ regional operations director: “We’re delighted to be investing in giving The Stanley Arms the new direction it needs to thrive. Blind Tiger Inns has earned a reputation for creating outstanding pubs that are highly popular across Lancashire and the wider North West. Their plans will give The Stanley Arms the wow factor it deserves.”

*The Stanley Arms is believed to be named after the Stanley family of Preston and to date back to the 1850s.