A popular riverside pub in Guildford town centre will be closed for all of January while it undergoes a complete makeover. The Britannia, which has been called ‘fantastic’ by customers closed on Sunday, January 5 for refurbishments.
The pub’s manager Libby, told SurreyLive: “We are refurbing the inside of the pub, with works being done to improve the bar, toilets, kitchen and cellar. The project’s cost is in the hundreds of thousands [of pounds] and we are planning to re-open at the end of the month.”
The Britannia is a highly credited pub, most recently winning the Best Pub National award at the 2023 Guildford Best Bar None awards. Sitting on the banks of the River Wey, it serves a remarkable range of Kentish ales from Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame, as well as an array of international lagers and world wines. The menu also offers a range of classic pub meals, lunch options and sharing platters.
Being so close to the river, the area around the pub is susceptible to flooding. The banks of the River Wey have recently flooded following heavy rainfall over the past few weeks, however, staff at the pub have assured the public that this will not halt the progress of refurbishments.
Staff provided an update on the progress of the refurbishments which show the pub’s interior being almost completely stripped away ready for the new décor.
The pub, which is set to reopen on January 30 has had its interior completely stripped ahead of the refurbishments.
(Image: The Britannia)
In a Facebook post on on Wednesday January 8, staff added: “The river bursting its banks hasn’t stopped our progress!. Felt a bit emotional seeing the pub being taken down. But we know it’s going to be amazing when finished.”
One customer described their visit to The Britannia as “fantastic” in TripAdvisor review from November 2024, adding: “Another super experience at our tried and tested favourite venue for family gatherings, date nights and everything in between! The pub was feeling festive and nicely busy! Our food was, as always, delicious. Thank you to Sarah and the team for looking after us and helping us enjoy a long due family catch up!”
The pub, in Millmead, is due to reopen with its new look on Thursday, January 30.