Portchester pub undergoing £240k refurbishment

The Wicor Mill in White Hart Lane, Portchester, is closed while it is undergoing the refurbishment that will see it transformed into a welcoming family venue.

The pub’s two rooms are to be combined to make one large space with dedicated areas for a sports bar and dining.

The interior will be redecorated in a traditional pub style and the kitchen is being extended.

New furniture will be added to the dining area and the games area will have booth seating, a pool table and darts board.

Outside, new signs and lights are being installed and a play area is being created.

Mr Hudson, who has recently taken over the Invincible in Portsea and the Old House at Home in Milton, saving them from closure, said: ‘The Wicor Mill has always been popular for its sports entertainment.

‘But we hope that the refurbishment will attract a wider customer base, in particular families looking for a friendly local to enjoy quality, but affordable food.

‘Our new menu features many popular classics and we’ll be introducing Sunday lunches too.’

He said the pub would also be putting on promotions nights, adding real ales to its offering and booking entertainment.

Other planned events include beer festivals and family fun days.

Mr Hudson, who also owns the Shepherd’s Crook and the Froddington Arms, said: ‘Thanks to the investment from Punch, we now have a pub to be proud of.

‘I’m looking forward to establishing The Wicor Mill as the focal point of the local community – a place where everyone can enjoy a great pub experience.’

Niki Plumb, from Punch, said: ‘Our main priority was to restore The Wicor Mill to its rightful place at the heart of the community, with a clear focus on delivering a great pub experience for local people.’

The pub will reopen at 6pm on May 6 with prosecco and samples from the menu. The celebrations will go into the weekend with live music and a bouncy castle.