Historic Opening of Wetherspoons in Spain Attracts British Enthusiasts
On February 9, a landmark event unfolded as the first Wetherspoons pub outside the UK and Ireland debuted in continental Europe. Located near Benidorm at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport, this new venue marks a significant expansion for the iconic British chain. At 11 am, a ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony drew a crowd of British airline passengers, who eagerly flooded in to experience a taste of home abroad.
A Blend of British and Spanish Influences
Named Castell de Santa Bàrbera after a nearby mountain fort, the pub incorporates subtle nods to its Spanish setting. The menu is printed in both Spanish and English, featuring items like Spanish tortilla, and staff are bilingual. However, the overall atmosphere remains distinctly British, with classic dishes such as all-day brunch and pints of Stella Artois or Old Speckled Hen dominating the offerings.
In the days leading up to the opening, a photo of the drinks menu shared on Facebook sparked mixed reactions. Some commenters expressed disappointment over prices, noting they were higher than expected, while others praised the convenience and familiarity. Despite this, the general sentiment on opening day was overwhelmingly positive, with many patrons expressing delight at having a Spoons option before their flights.
Patrons Share Their Experiences
The first paying customer, Daz Sunderland, a 57-year-old lead worker from Solihull, shared his excitement exclusively. "I was the very first customer through the door. It's absolutely excellent. Big success. Cheers, everyone," he said after enjoying a pint following a weekend in Benidorm with his wife.
Other notable visitors included Alexander Ellis from Windsor, who purchased a £25 return ticket from the UK solely to try the new pub. "It just makes me proud to be British. Up the Tim," he remarked, though he noted the pub was smaller than anticipated and wished for more Spanish menu options. In a quirky move, one woman living in Benidorm bought a plane ticket to Krakow just to access the departures lounge, visited the pub, then discarded the ticket and returned home.
Bernedette Ferguson, an optician from Walsall, stopped by for a half-pint before flying home after a weekend in Benidorm. "The beer tastes good, everyone is really, really friendly," she said, adding that prices were comparable to those in the UK. Daniel Pugh Jones, a travel agent from Swansea, highlighted the affordability, noting that all-day brunches cost 12.95 euros each and coffee came with free refills.
Spanish Patrons and Future Expansion Plans
While most attendees were British, Spanish locals also showed interest. Javier Salazar, born in Alicante but a fan of Wetherspoons from his time in Edinburgh, praised the adaptation. "It is beautiful, gorgeous. I like that they've adapted the menu to a Spanish one," he said.
Staff at the opening hinted at further European expansions for Wetherspoons, though details on locations and timelines were kept confidential. They mentioned that future pubs might feature ales on tap, unlike this location which focuses on lagers. The pub operates daily from 6 am to 9 pm, with an open courtyard allowing departure-side passengers to enjoy drinks and cigarettes—a rare feature in the airport.
Official Statements and Broader Implications
Wetherspoon founder and chairman Tim Martin expressed enthusiasm about the launch. "We are delighted to have opened in Spain. We believe the pub will be popular with a wide range of customers travelling home from Alicante Airport, including those travelling home to the UK and those using the terminal for trips to England and beyond. We aim to open a number of pubs overseas in the coming months and years, including those at airports," he stated.
Javier Cagigal, CEO of Lagardère Travel Retail Spain and Portugal, emphasized the strategic approach. "At Alicante Airport, our team has focused on understanding passenger expectations and translating that insight into a dining offer that is relevant and appealing. This opening reflects our locally driven approach and the way we work with partner brands across our portfolio," he added.
This opening not only caters to British expats and travelers but also signals Wetherspoons' ambitious plans for international growth, blending familiar British pub culture with local adaptations to appeal to a diverse clientele.
