Winchester pub The Exchange reopens after six-figure makeover

The Exchange, in Southgate Street, Winchester opened on Friday, April 28 following a month-long refurbishment.

The venue, now owned by the Craft Union Pub Company, has opened up the space inside and in the garden, installed 10 more TV screens so guests can watch live sport no matter where they’re sitting and an interactive dartboard now sits in the area where the pool table used to be.

Operations manager Olly Mattinson has more than 20 years of experience in the pub industry across England and in Spain but the publican is excited to return to the city where he went to school.

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Mr Mattinson, 38, said: “It’s been a long time coming so we’re very excited to be open. There’s been a really good buzz in town about it so people are looking forward to seeing the new place.

“The inside décor is vastly improved. It felt a bit dark and heavy before so we’ve opened it up a lot and made it lighter.

“One of the biggest changes, which the majority of people who have ever drunk here before will be ecstatic about is that we’ve spent a considerable amount of money on the drainage situation because previously the place has been fairly famous for questionable toilets.

“The toilets have been completely ripped out, refurbed and drainage sorted. Fingers crossed we won’t have any puddles or issues there.

“There was considerable discussion about whether to keep the pool table but we’ve taken it out to utilize the area in other ways. If the demand is strong we may look at putting it back. We’ll constantly evolve and adapt depending on what customers are looking for.”

The outdoor furniture is due to be stained at the weekend, following delays due to the weather, and the covering above the seats has been removed to let more sunlight in.

The new manager said the drinks selection has “premiumized” in its selection of lagers, ciders and draught products, in addition to a wider selection of spirits.

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Open mic nights are due to start on Tuesdays, with karaoke on Thursdays and live entertainment at the weekend.

Olly, along with his partner Liam Murray, 34, have kept on most of the original team but are still recruiting.

The pub is hosting a big launch party on Friday, May 12 and Saturday, May 13 once the staff have settled in. The double-night event is set to have a raffle, prizes, DJ, live music and fire eaters.

Opening hours are 10am-11pm Monday to Thursday, 10am-12am Friday to Saturday and 10am-10.30pm on Sundays.