One of Hitchin's best-known pubs is set for a major transformation.

The The Radcliffe Arms will temporarily close from Monday 23 February as it undergoes a substantial £600,000 refurbishment, with owners Wells & Co investing heavily in the town centre venue.

The works form part of the company's continued investment in its community pubs — something it says is particularly important given the ongoing challenges facing the UK hospitality sector.

🌿 What's Changing?

Community feedback has played a key role in shaping the refurbishment plans, with a strong focus on enhancing the overall customer experience.

Key upgrades will include:

• A brand-new garden room with retractable roof, designed to make the most of summer days while offering flexibility in all weather.
• An interactive dart lane, adding a fresh social gaming element.
• A refreshed interior layout.
• A relocated pizza oven, aimed at elevating the dining experience.

Regulars can expect the pub's popular weekly events and food and drink offers to return — alongside the launch of a brand-new menu when doors reopen.

"An Important Part of the Community"

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Jamie Philcox, General Manager at The Radcliffe Arms, said:

"The Radcliffe Arms has always been an important part of the local community, and we're incredibly proud of the role it continues to play here in Hitchin.

This refurbishment is all about making the pub even better for our customers — improving the space and the experience, especially outdoors, while enhancing the character and atmosphere.

The project shows real belief in the team, the pub and the community. We're really looking forward to welcoming everyone back and showing them what we've been working on."

A 150-Year Heritage

Founded in 1876, Wells & Co is now a fifth-generation, family-owned business operating more than 200 pubs across the UK and France. The company is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, marking a century and a half of brewing and pub heritage.

The investment in Hitchin underlines its confidence in the future of well-run, community-driven pubs.

Reopening Date

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The Radcliffe Arms is scheduled to reopen on Wednesday 1 April, welcoming back both loyal regulars and new guests keen to see the refreshed venue.