Major Revamp of the Pear Tree in Keyworth to Include Name Change

The Pear Tree in Keyworth is to close at the end of service on 18th June for a major £307,000 revamp by Heineken owned, Star Pubs & Bars1.  The pub is being renamed The Windmill and will reopen in mid-July as a top-quality family friendly local with a focus on sports and live entertainment.  

Under temporary management for the last few years, The Windmill is being taken on by experienced pub operator, John C Carroll, and his son Graham, who also has hospitality experience and a degree in hotel and catering management.  The duo will introduce food and barista style coffee for the first time, broadening the pub’s appeal.  They are looking to employ nine people at The Windmill with the intention of creating the best community pub in the village.

The investment will see a top-to-toe interior and exterior upgrade of the tired looking pub.

Inside, more space is being created by repositioning seating and a feature back bar installed.  As well as a top to redecoration giving the pub a brighter, smarter look and feel, there will be softer seating for casual drinking and dining, seating booths and new high and mid-level tables and stools in the sport bar. 

The exterior is being given a complete makeover repainted in a smart dark grey offset by a contrasting terracotta panelling and new signage and lighting. In the rear garden different seating areas are being created. A large six-by-six-meter covered pergola with festoon lighting is being installed over the patio and new tables and chairs and an all-weather heater added.  There will also be a Birra Moretti feature archway and planters to soften the look.

As part of the upgrade the latest dispense technology which improves the quality and consistency of draft beer and cider is being installed. The Smart Dispense System’s unique cooling technology and line insulation from keg to tap is 20% more energy efficient than standard systems, keeping cider and beer colder.

A new commercial kitchen is also being installed allowing the pub to offer affordable good quality pub classics such as cod & chips, burgers and salads, as well as vegan and vegetarian dishes and sharing platters.  There will also be a children’s menu with special kid-sized cutlery and crockery.  

Drinks wise, there will be premium beers including Heineken, Brixton beers and Beavertown, alongside a selection of craft ales, draught cider, top quality wines and spirits and some cocktails.  Heineken 0.0 will be available for those not wanting to drink alcohol.

Says John: “Graham and I are keen to get to know local residents and find out what they would like The Windmill to offer.  We love pubs and want The Windmill to play a central role at the heart of the community.  Our plans are to host regular quizzes and live entertainment, giving people reasons to come out, socialise and have a good time. We’re very much looking forward to opening the doors in July and welcoming customers to their new local.”

Says Star Pubs & Bars Area Manager, Craig Nevins: “John and Graham make a great team. They’ve a passion for pubs and between them have many years hospitality experience and so understand how to deliver high levels of service and how to make people happy.

“The timing of the refurbishment means that The Windmill can play a part in bringing together existing and new Keyworth residents.  It will be a top-quality community local, a place for all to enjoy.”