The Sportsman reopens in Durham after major renovation works

The Sportsman has reopened as a 'community first pub' after a complete renovation funded by a £715,000 investment from brewing company Greene King. 

After being closed for more than two years, the popular pub is back and will now offer 18 new jobs in the community. 

The Sportsman is reopening as a 'hive pub', Greene King's franchise concept designed to bring quality local pubs into the heart of their communities. 

Local resident Dean Dillon, who previously managed The Sportsman, is returning as its franchisee, ensuring the pub remains closely connected to the area. 

The investment has transformed both the pub's interior and exterior spaces. 

Inside customers will find a completely revamped layout, with new seating, lighting, fixtures, and decor to create a welcoming and modern atmosphere. 

The exterior features a redesigned beer garden, offering new furniture and year-round landscaping for guests to enjoy. 

Dean Dillon inside the newly refurbished The Sportsman pub in Durham (Image: PR) Dean Dillon plans to make The Sportsman a "community first" pub, focused on creating a warm social hub for locals. 

He said: "We are delighted to become franchisees of The Sportsman and reopen this pub to serve the local community again.

"As locals ourselves, we will be a community-first pub, committed to playing a valuable role as the social hub and beating heart of the area.

"We have to say, the new and improved pub is looking incredible – it was worth the wait. We cannot wait to welcome local residents back to the new-look pub."

The pub will offer a wide range of food and drinks, including traditional pub fare like fish and chips, burgers, and pies, as well as tapas-style plates and sharing options.

Special weekly offers such as 2-4-1 Burger Night and Steak and Wine Night will be available. On tap, guests can choose from a variety of beers, from lagers and ciders to craft beers and ales, alongside an array of spirits, wines, and alcohol-free drinks.

In addition to food and drink, The Sportsman is set to host a regular line up of live entertainment, including local bands, karaoke, and quiz nights.

Sky Sports and BT Sport will be available, ensuring fans don’t miss out on major sporting events.

Andy Wearn, Business Development Manager for Greene King Pub Partners, said, “Thanks to our £715,000 investment, The Sportsman is back open and serving the community once more.

"After two years, this pub is back and better than ever before thanks to a complete overhaul inside and out.

"This beautiful pub will serve great beer, a wide range of food and provide all the sport and entertainment you could need under one roof.”