Marple pub creates year-round beer garden

A popular Marple pub has transformed its beer garden into a versatile all-weather venue that will host live music, community events and private celebrations throughout the year.

Robinsons Brewery’s The Bulls Head has officially opened The Barn, a new indoor-outdoor extension designed to give customers a welcoming space to enjoy whatever the weather. The investment has added 36 covers which almost doubles the pub’s capacity and creates new opportunities for events, dining and entertainment.

Pub partners Allison and Kevin worked with the Robinsons Property Team to bring the project to life after recognising the need for a space that could be used beyond the summer months; the duo explained:

“We needed an extension to increase our capacity, particularly during the winter months or if we have a rainy summer. We also really needed an additional space where we could host events and functions.”

Since opening, The Barn has already hosted live music and private functions, with cinema nights, brunch events and craft workshops planned in the future. Alison and Kevin added:

“We’ve started using the space to host live music, which has gone down really well. We’ve also held private functions already and received great feedback. Looking ahead, we’d love to develop the space further with brunch events, cinema events and craft events.”

Designed to blend seamlessly with the existing pub, the new space features a retractable roof, full-height sliding doors, heating and weatherproof furnishings, allowing it to adapt throughout the seasons. Accessibility was also a key consideration with level access suitable for wheelchair users and families with prams.

The challenging, sloping site required an innovative design. The result was two connected structures that can also be used independently. This flexibility allows the team to host multiple events at the same time, and a separate sound system enables entertainment to take place without affecting the main bar area.

The project forms part of Robinsons’ continued investment in its pub partners, helping create spaces that meet the changing needs of their communities.

For The Bulls Head, The Barn represents more than an extension. It’s a new community hub where residents can enjoy food, drink, entertainment and events throughout the year. Alison and Kevin said:

“The reaction has been amazing. Customers absolutely love it. We’d just like to say how appreciative we are that Robinsons have helped bring this vision to life.”