Manchester Airport has announced that its first JD Wetherspoon pub, named The Belle Vue, will open in September within Terminal 2's Departures lounge. The venue, with over 300 covers across 338 square metres, is the final major food and drink outlet to launch as part of the airport's £1.3bn transformation plan.
The pub takes its name from Manchester's historic Belle Vue showground, which housed a pub, zoological gardens, greyhound racing and a speedway track. The site was a social hub from the Victorian era until its final event in 2020. The airport's design will feature a clubhouse style with sports memorabilia, blending classic and modern elements.
Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said: “We’re very excited to reveal more detail about The Belle Vue, which will encapsulate the spirit and traditions of sporting entertainment in Manchester.” He added that the pub is another household name joining the terminal's transformation.
Richard Jackson, Retail Director, noted: “We were keen to ensure a varied food and drink offering with a strong sense of place. The Belle Vue will complement existing bars and pubs, expanding choice for passengers.” The airport's Boutique Mall, featuring fashion brands, is also set to open this summer.
JD Wetherspoon Chief Executive John Hutson commented: “We are looking forward to opening at Manchester Airport. We believe our new pub will prove popular with travellers of all ages and be an asset to the new terminal.” The opening marks one of the final stages of the decade-long transformation, which has doubled Terminal 2's size and earned a Prix Versailles architecture award.
