Kingstanding’s Golden Hind reopened on 25th March. It is the next local Marston’s pub to be relaunched under the new sports concept, Grandstand, with new market-leading big screen technology, menus, and events
The Golden Hind in Kingstanding has undergone an exciting refurbishment, reopening as a ‘Grandstand’ sports pub, following an investment of over £271,700.
The much-loved community pub has been transformed with new features, including the very best technology to guarantee each visit rivals a stadium experience.
The Golden Hind has proudly reopened its doors with their chosen local community heroes, Shaz Phillips and Mark Smith, who were invited to pull the first pint. Both Shaz and Mark are valued members of the community and longstanding supporters of the Golden Hind. Shaz has been part of the pub’s journey from the very beginning. Last year, she tragically lost her son, Curtis, aged 29, in a devastating accident. During that incredibly difficult time, the pub and wider community rallied around her – just as she has always done for others. Despite her loss, Shaz continues to demonstrate remarkable strength, kindness, and community spirit.
Mark Smith serves as Chair of Trustees for the charity, Cancer Not Today, which was established in memory of his partner, Kathy Wagstaff-Smith, a former member of the Golden Hind team. Kathy was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 and later launched the Cancer Not Today blog to support others navigating their own cancer journeys, while raising awareness of the importance of regular self-checking. Sadly, Kathy passed away on 3 October 2024 due to metastatic bone disease. The charity now carries forward her legacy, supporting individuals and families affected by cancer who may be facing hardship, distress, or vulnerable circumstances.
New market-leading technology has been installed. The refurbishment will include the installation of market-leading technology, such as a new 3-metre-long, 1.68-metre-tall screen, state-of-the-art sound systems, and flexible tiered seating to guarantee a great view of the action.
A refurbished outdoor area with TV screens has been added, and the all-new Marston’s ‘Order & Pay’ app will now allow locals to order from their tables, ensuring they never miss a minute of the action.
The Golden Hind has been decorated with local sports memorabilia. It is on the hunt for photographs and merchandise, giving pub-goers the chance to fill the walls and celebrate the achievements of local sports stars and teams, past and present.
The pub will show all key sporting fixtures, including football, rugby, cricket, tennis, F1, darts, horse racing, you name it, they will show it! Regulation dart boards and pool tables will provide entertainment well after the final whistle, with new competition leagues and ‘free to play’ recreational sessions taking place throughout the week.
A new range of bar food has been introduced, perfect for half-time and for sharing. The ‘Match Day Menu’ will feature hand-held bites, such as chicken wings and nachos, sitting alongside pub favourites such as fish and chips and burgers. The Golden Hind has also refreshed its range of drinks, and all draught beer is available in 2-pint cups.
There will also be the chance for local sports teams to get their hands on a ‘Black Card’, securing them endless chips when they visit for team drinks, and even more rewards if they win their game.
The new Grandstand concept has been introduced after industry research* revealed that 8.5M consumers have watched sports games at the pub, and 86% of sports fans say that they watch games at sports pubs due to a livelier atmosphere, better screens, sound, and connecting with friends and family.
Marston’s picked the Golden Hind as one of the pubs to receive the Grandstand makeover due to its involvement with local sports teams, community groups and charities. The refurbishment has created a new and exciting proposition for local sports fans from Kingstanding and beyond.
Pub Partners, Robert Jones and Sam Schofield, said: “We’ve loved welcoming the community back with open arms! The response has been fantastic to our food and drink offers, as well as the new technology to watch all kinds of sports – we’re thankful that our pub is always full of good vibes, and real community spirit.”
The Golden Hind reopened on 25th March.
For more information or to book a table, visit:
*Source: CGA Value of Live Sports in Pubs and Bars 2023, HDI Trade zone Data.