High Street pub the Royal Oak in Stockton on Tees, reopened after a £125,000 refurbishment on one of the biggest weekends of the year for community pubs.

With the pub’s customers love of sports, owners Stonegate Pub Company made sure doors were back open for the start of the Euros as crowds poured in for England’s game with Russia on Saturday straight after jubilant street celebrations for the Queen’s birthday.

“It was a befitting tribute to the tradition of the Royal Oak to celebrate the fresh new look on such a big weekend, not only with our regal link, but our great reputation for showing sport,” explained General Manager Stephen Robinson.

“Customers have certainly been wowed, praising the new décor which is so much more spacious and modern,” he added.

Stonegate’s investment in the pub has seen the best sound, light and media systems installed with a new projector, two pull down screens and no less than eleven large HD TVs broadcasting from three Sky boxes, BT sports and Racing channels. The drinks range has been expanded with craft beers including Hop House 13, Brewdog IPA and Einstok. Having just been awarded an excellence award by Cask Marque, rotating ales retain pride of place with ‘Doom Bar’, ‘Black Sheep’ and golden cask beer ‘A-Hop-Alypse Now’ first to the pumps.

Add to this an exciting new ‘proper pub’ menu complete with daily features. A selection of fourteen pub favourites includes Hand Battered Fish andamp; Chips; British Steak and Ale Pie; and Oven-baked Lasagne, promising to bolster High Street business by offering customers two meals at £7.49.

“We’ve really concentrated on the whole package to get the pub right for the people of Stockton,” added Stephen. “Atmosphere and warmth is big for us, as well as a reason to visit us every day with great food whether it be Mighty Mondays meals at £3.99, Big Burger Tuesdays at £4.99 or the traditional Sunday roast.”

As well as a rhythm of sports activity throughout the week, from televised sport to pool and darts evenings, the atmosphere ramps up for a great party night out on Friday and a final send off to the weekend with DJ andamp; Karaoke on Sundays.

The Royal Oak was closed for two weeks whilst the refurbishment was completed.

20 High street, Stockton on Tees, County Durham, TS18 1SP

Opening Hours: Mon-Wed 10am-11pm; Thurs-Sat 10am-midnight; Sun 11am-11pm