Manchester Airport’s first-ever JD Wetherspoon pub will open this September, airport bosses have revealed – with a name and décor inspired by an iconic Mancunian location.
The pub will be named The Belle Vue, in a nod to the city’s historic showground that housed a pub, zoological gardens, greyhound racing and speedway track. It was a focal point for social life in the city from the Victorian period right up until 2020, when the final event was held at Belle Vue stadium.
The design of the 338 sqm pub in the Terminal 2 Departures lounge, which will have more than 300 covers, is inspired by the history of Belle Vue and the sporting culture of the North West of England.
Artistic impressions of the space show a clubhouse style design with a blend of classic and modern features, complete with sports memorabilia adorning the walls.
The Belle Vue will become the final major food and drink venue to open its doors as part of the airport’s decade-long, £1.3bn transformation of Terminal 2. The programme has seen the terminal more than double in size and win a prestigious UNESCO-backed architecture award, with a blend of high street names and Northern brands taking up residence in its departure lounge.
Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said:
“We’re very excited to be able to reveal more detail about Terminal 2’s new JD Wetherspoon pub The Belle Vue, which will encapsulate the spirit and traditions of sporting entertainment in Manchester. This will be the first JD Wetherspoon pub at Manchester Airport and it is fantastic to have yet another household name taking its place among those opening units in the terminal, as part of its £1.3bn transformation.”
