Star Pubs Brings New Life to The Horse & Jockey with Stunning Renovation

Published on December 1, 2025

Star Pubs has recently finished its biggest investment of the year, the refurbishment of the Horse and Jockey Pub in Waddington, at a cost of £750,000. This is another of Star’s managed operator pubs, completing the 220 mark. As part of the company’s strategy to reopen the pubs which have been closed for many years and turn them into serviceable community hubs, the company is now looking to reopen pubs.

Transforming The Horse & Jockey

After being closed for over seven years, The Horse & Jockey in Waddington has undergone a complete makeover. This venue is now a family-friendly spot that combines sports, entertainment, and great food, catering to the needs of a diverse customer base. The refurbishment has enhanced the pub’s historic charm while introducing modern facilities.

The pub now features a spacious bar, two lounge/dining areas, and a games room. The games room is equipped with halo darts, a new pool table, and multiple screens broadcasting popular sports channels, including Sky Sports and TNT Sports. The revamped space is designed to accommodate various events and gatherings, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Revitalizing the Historic Pub

The refurbishment has carefully preserved the pub’s heritage, maintaining key architectural features such as its timber and flagstone floors. A new log burner has been added to the fireplace, creating a cozy atmosphere. The pub’s exterior has also been carefully restored, given that it is housed in a Grade II listed building. The addition of a 130-seater walled courtyard garden further enhances the outdoor experience, making it a perfect spot for dining and relaxation.

Expanding the Estate with Just Add Talent Model

This transformation is part of Star Pubs’ broader expansion strategy. The company has already refurbished several other pubs this year, investing heavily in new sites. In the final quarter of 2025 alone, Star Pubs has invested £1.59 million in converting three other pubs into managed operator locations: Gibsons at York, The New Pin at Chellaston, and The Canterbury Tales at Canterbury. These developments contribute to Star’s growth, with the company adding 32 new managed pubs to its portfolio in 2025, creating an estimated 200 new jobs across the country.

The Just Add Talent (JAT) model is central to this expansion. This low-risk, high-support approach has proven popular with aspiring pub operators. The JAT model enables individuals to manage and operate a pub with the backing of Star Pubs, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed. The demand for these investments is high, and Star Pubs has seen a significant increase in interest from potential operators looking for a low-cost entry into the hospitality industry.

What to Expect at The Horse & Jockey

The Horse & Jockey now stands as an ideal destination for locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re looking to catch a game, enjoy a meal, or relax with friends, this pub offers a wide range of activities. The spacious layout ensures that there is room for different types of gatherings, from family dinners to sports enthusiasts. The pub’s mix of traditional charm and modern amenities makes it a welcoming spot for all.

For those visiting the area, the pub’s refurbished courtyard garden offers a peaceful retreat. The high-quality food menu caters to various tastes, from classic pub dishes to modern options. Star Pubs’ commitment to providing affordable and high-quality meals ensures that there’s something for everyone. The addition of the games room also makes The Horse & Jockey a great place for socializing and entertainment.

Star Pubs’ Continued Success in 2025

This major refurbishment at The Horse & Jockey is just one example of Star Pubs’ ongoing success. The company’s investment strategy has proven effective, breathing new life into old venues and creating spaces that serve local communities. With the addition of 32 new pubs in 2025 alone, Star Pubs is rapidly expanding its managed operator estate. The company is committed to ensuring that each site is equipped with the right facilities and atmosphere to meet the needs of the local population.

The Just Add Talent model continues to be a cornerstone of Star Pubs’ success, with increasing numbers of individuals seeking to operate under the company’s guidance. By providing a blend of support, resources, and flexibility, Star Pubs is making it easier for pub operators to thrive in the current market.

A Great Place to Visit

If you find yourself in Waddington, The Horse & Jockey is well worth a visit. With its modern amenities, historical charm, and community-focused approach, it’s the perfect spot for a meal, a drink, or a night out with friends. The investment into the pub signals a bright future for this once-closed venue, and it’s clear that Star Pubs is committed to creating spaces that offer something for everyone.

Conclusion

The Horse & Jockey is the first pub on which Star Pubs have spent the newly acquired £750,000. This investment focuses directly on Star Pubs efforts to modernize the UK pub sector whilst incorporating the community feel. Star Pubs have generated a mould which guides the rest of the industry. Star Pubs are going to continue building modernized, community focused pubs all across the UK thanks to the Just Add Talent model.