The much-loved community pub has been transformed with new features, including market-leading technology to guarantee each visit rivals a stadium experience.
The Limekiln marked its reopening by inviting two special guests to pull the first pints: Kevin Wilson, former Nottingham Forest and Celtic player, and Ron Smith, a respected local veteran.
Ron is well known for his community work with the Royal British Legion, a charity that the pub also supports all year round, while Kevin brings a strong sporting connection, making him the perfect choice to officially open the doors of Marston’s latest Grandstand sports pub.
New market-leading technology has been installed, including a new three-metre-long and 1.68-metre-tall screen, a state-of-the-art sound system, and flexible tiered seating to guarantee a great view of the action.
Outdoor bars with screens have been added, and the all-new Marston’s ‘Order & Pay’ app will now allow locals to order from their tables, never missing a minute of the action.
The Limekiln 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 pub games 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 Limekiln 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 per cent 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 Limekiln 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 Nottingham and beyond.
Pub Partners, Nicky and Dave, said: “From new screens and menus to involving the local community, we’re passionate about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome - whether they’re here for the match, a family meal, or to celebrate with their team after the final whistle.”
The Limekiln reopened on Wednesday, 18th March.
*Source: CGA Value of Live Sports in Pubs and Bars 2023, HDI Trade zone Data.
9. The Limekiln pub reopens after £355k refurburbishment
Raising a glass Photo: CharlieGeaterPhotography