After an extensive £200,000 refurbishment, The Mermaid, a cherished Sherborne pub on Bristol Road, has officially reopened its doors, inviting locals to experience a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.
The grand reopening on Wednesday, November 12, marked the culmination of a significant joint investment by licensee Jaime Howell, her partner Ashley, and Admiral Taverns. Their shared vision has transformed The Mermaid into a dynamic social hub while preserving its welcoming atmosphere.
The upgrade retains classic touches like the spacious open fireplace but elevates the space across three distinct areas: a revamped function room, a cozy snug, and a dedicated games zone, all fitted with fresh furniture, new flooring, and modern fixtures. The main bar has also been enhanced to better serve guests.
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Sports enthusiasts are set to enjoy live broadcasts on an impressive 98-inch flat-screen TV, supported by five additional screens ranging from 40 to 50 inches strategically placed throughout the pub, delivering an immersive viewing experience.
Outside, the pub’s street presence has been boosted with new signage and lighting. The renovation extends to the beer garden, now offering seating for approximately fifty people at the rear and fifteen at the front, complemented by an upgraded BBQ area perfect for social gatherings.
Locals Jaime and Ashley, who have deep roots in Sherborne, expressed their excitement about the transformation. Jaime shared, “We’re overjoyed with the new look and can’t wait to welcome the community to enjoy everything we’ve created. It’s been a true labor of love, and seeing our vision come alive has been incredibly rewarding.”
Looking ahead, The Mermaid will maintain a lively entertainment calendar, featuring pool, darts, and skittles leagues on Mondays and Tuesdays, bingo nights on the first Wednesday each month, and plans for monthly quizzes and regular live music on Saturdays. The venue also actively supports the local youth charity The Rendezvous through ongoing fundraising efforts.
Patrons can indulge in a curated selection of draught beers, including favorites like Guinness, Cruzcampo, Madrí, and Camden Stout. The much-loved Sunday carvery has already resumed service.
Phil Warne, Business Development Manager at Admiral Taverns, praised the couple’s dedication: “Jaime and Ashley have infused The Mermaid with passion and community spirit. This refurb solidifies its status as a local favorite, and we anticipate continued success under their leadership.”
The Mermaid is part of Admiral Taverns’ extensive portfolio of around 1,400 pubs across the UK, reflecting a commitment to nurturing vibrant, community-oriented venues.