The Arrow, a beloved pub in Yeovil’s Brympton area, has successfully secured a new alcohol licence following a comprehensive £480,000 refurbishment. The revamped venue, owned by Marstons, officially reopened its doors to customers on February 18, marked by a ceremony attended by Yeovil’s Mayor, Councillor Tony Lock, and local MP Adam Dance.
Under the facelift, The Arrow has embraced Marstons' ‘Grandstand’ format, featuring modern upgrades such as high-definition TV screens, refreshed menus, and a fully renovated kitchen designed to elevate the customer experience.
Somerset Council has approved important amendments to the pub’s licence, enabling extended opening hours until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays—with a condition that anyone under 16 must leave by 10pm. Additionally, the former requirement for table service during televised sporting events has been removed. Indoor sporting events can now run from 9am until midnight daily, with extended hours until 1am on weekends.
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Initial plans to install an outdoor bar were shelved due to concerns over potential noise and crowd pressures, particularly during home games at nearby Yeovil Town FC’s Huish Park, located less than a mile away. This decision helped secure the support of Avon and Somerset Constabulary and the council’s environmental health team, who withdrew their objections prior to the licensing sub-committee meeting on March 24.
Michelle Hazlewood, solicitor for Marstons, highlighted the strategic investment behind the refurbishment: “Marstons is revitalizing venues that were becoming tired, especially those with strong community and sporting ties. The ‘Grandstand’ format showcases the best of these pubs by focusing on high-quality sports broadcasting and a better dining experience. Nearly half a million pounds was invested here, much of it on technical upgrades like the screen and sound systems, along with a complete kitchen refit.”
The pub has already seen a significant boost in food sales post-reopening, with food now representing 34% of overall sales compared to 25% pre-refurbishment. Hazlewood emphasized that The Arrow aims to be family-friendly rather than a typical male-dominated sports bar. “Our goal is to create a welcoming space for all, not just a wet-led sports venue,” she said.
After a brief closed session, the licensing sub-committee granted the updated licence. Councillor Simon Carswell, who chaired the hearing, commented, “We have approved the application as presented and wish The Arrow all the best with its new chapter.”
With the new licence and refreshed facilities, The Arrow is set to become a vibrant hub for sports fans and families alike, in time for the 2028 European Championships.