Portchester pub back in business after £240,000k facelift

The Wicor Mill in White Hart Lane, Portchester, had been closed for six weeks while it underwent a refurbishment to transform it into a welcoming family venue.

The pub has had a total overhaul, inside and out, as well as an upgrade to its menu which now includes a full range of ‘hearty food’, says owner Steve Hudson.

The publican, who has recently taken over the Invincible in Portsea and the Old House at Home in Milton, saving them both from closure, said: ‘We’re absolutely chuffed to bits with it all.

‘We’re really pleased at how the whole thing has turned out.

‘The Wicor Mill has always been a popular a popular place. We’re just looking forward to getting more people through the door than ever before.’

The overhaul was all down to a joint investment between Mr Hudson and pub operator, Punch.

Outside, the venue has been given a fresh coat of paint as well as new signage and lighting.

However, the major transformation is inside.

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

New furniture has been added to the dining area, while the games area has been given booth seating, a pool table and dartboard.

The kitchen has also been extended to accommodate The Wicor Mills’ new menu.

While the site’s garden has been given a makeover, with plans to include a new children’s play area on the cards.

Marie-Anne Rainer, 30, of Portchester has been coming to the pub for about 12 years.

She said: ‘It’s more welcoming, spacious and just bigger. It’s a really nice place. The new staff are friendly too.’

Mr Hudson said the pub would also be putting on promotions nights, adding real ales to its offering and booking entertainment like live music and magicians.

Other planned events include beer festivals and family fun days.

‘We really want the pub to be back at the centre of the community,’ he added.