The Distillery, a pub in Sutton Coldfield on Birmingham Road, recently reopened under new management but has temporarily closed for several days to undertake significant upgrades. The venue, which took over the former Slug and Lettuce site and opened on February 20, has briefly shut down on two occasions—from March 16 to 19 and again from March 23 to 26—to complete improvements aimed at revitalizing the pub experience.
New tenant Paul Haywood, a seasoned businessman with several venues in the Midlands, is spearheading a transformation to boost trade and create a more inclusive and lively atmosphere. The pub, once known for weekend crowds but quiet during the week, is being reimagined to attract a wider clientele, including families and sports fans.
The recent closures are part of essential refurbishment work, including the installation of new Sky and TNT Sports TV services, new flooring, and leisure facilities such as arcade games and a pool table. With a total of 11 large screens—ranging from 32-inch to 65-inch—planned throughout the pub, customers can enjoy live sports coverage, including upcoming major football events like the World Cup.
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Paul shared details of the ongoing upgrades: “We’re fitting Sky and TNT Sports to bring live sports back. We’re also updating the bar line-up to feature popular brands like Carling and Coors. Additionally, we’re introducing arcade machines with classic games like Street Fighter and Pacman, plus a new pool table in the rear area.”
The Distillery will also offer bottomless coffees, affordable lunch deals targeting local workers, and family-friendly options. The venue is being zoned to cater to different customer needs: a front coffee area, a central bar and sports section, and a booth area at the back with the pool table.
Despite initial challenges during the first weeks, Paul is optimistic. The venue plans to reopen fully on Good Friday (April 3) and remain open through all remaining work. Upcoming promotions include Coors offers during football matches, free pints, discounts, and halftime free pizzas for table bookings, all announced on The Distillery’s Facebook page.
Having previously managed The Boot in Sutton Coldfield, Paul understands the local market and is dedicated to delivering “the proper Distillery experience” with a fresh food and drinks menu and community-focused events.