Take a sneak peek inside this ‘cornerstone’ Northampton pub as it reopens following major £350k makeover – new name revealed

The former Sir Pickering Phipps pub in Wellingborough Road has been completely redesigned, renamed and relaunched as The Phipps after a major two-month refurbishment.

The pub, owned by the McManus Pub Company, has been redesigned as a ‘modern neighbourhood pub’, with the bar moved to the centre of the venue and a new focus on cocktails and sharing-style dishes. The owners say the refurbished space includes an expanded drinks range and updated interior aimed at creating a livelier atmosphere.

One of the major additions is a private karaoke booth, which the company says is intended for group bookings, birthday parties and late-night entertainment, and is expected to become a popular new feature.

The venue also launches with a new menu centred on small plates and grazing dishes, alongside a refreshed cocktail list. The traditional patterned carpets, mahogany furniture and the former “Sir Pickering” name have been removed as part of the redesign, replaced with a more modern interior.

Gary McManus, Managing Director of McManus Pub Company, said: “The Phipps has always been a cornerstone of Northampton life, and now it’s stepping into a thrilling new chapter. We’ve rebuilt this space around how people want to socialise today, great food, great drinks, great music, and great company. From high-energy Friday nights to chilled-out Sunday lunches, we’ve created a vibrant neighbourhood venue that’s welcoming, modern, and full of life. We cannot wait to see the people of Northampton walk through the doors, make memories, and watch The Phipps become the beating heart of Wellingborough Road’s social scene.”

The boozer held a VIP launch night on Thursday (December 4) ahead of the opening the following day, that saw hundreds of local guests, familiar faces, and Northampton businesses.

Gary McManus added: “It was everything we hoped it would be, lively, welcoming, and full of the Northampton spirit that makes this town special. Seeing so many guests enjoying the space for the first time was incredible. The Phipps has been designed for fun, connection, and unforgettable nights, and we can’t wait to welcome the whole community through the doors from this weekend and across the festive season.”

The project has created 15 new jobs. McManus Pub Company, which has traded in Northampton for more than 55 years, now employs more than 200 staff in Northamptonshire.

The pub launched on Friday December 5 to the general public from 6pm, with live band Pure Genius, a DJ until 1am and 2-for-£15 cocktails all evening.

Other events include:

• Saturday 6 December: “Sport Meets Banter” with Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock and Ian Harte ahead of the Leeds vs Liverpool match at 5.30pm, followed by a DJ.

• Sunday 7 December: Ex-Saints players join drinkers to watch the Saints vs Section Paloise Champions Cup match at 1.30pm.

• Saturday 12 December: Social media personality Big John “Bosh” visits The Phipps, with live music from Pure Genius and a DJ until 1am.

Beyond its launch events, the pub plans weekend DJs, live bands and acoustic artists, plus midweek bingo, quizzes, open mic nights and community activities. Sundays will feature a new Sunday lunch menu.