Historic Wokingham Pub Set to Re-Open in Early October
Every UK business is currently facing enormous challenges in getting back to work. The so-called ‘Pingdemic’ is causing huge logistical problems; the continuing issues with the virus and the beginning of the national holiday period is hampering the nation’s progress towards a return to everyday life. So, spare a thought for Will Upton, the new General Manager of The Rose Inn at 30 Market Place, who is working around the clock to help re-open one of Wokingham’s oldest new pubs.
Will is excited by the work they are doing to re-open The Rose. He said: “This has been a wonderful voyage of discovery. For example, we have found old fireplaces which are being fully restored and we’ve replaced several areas with reclaimed timbers that had been damaged historically in several fires. Passers-by will have spotted the many craftsmen, joiners, and other building trades hard at work, and this is a crucial time for the project if we’re to pour our first pint in early October.”
The Rose Inn’s new owners, The Oakman Group, has always had a good reputation for reinstating a building’s heritage whilst at the same time harmonising the historical elements with their concepts of what a modern pub should provide. When finished, their aim is for The Rose to provide a modern, comfortable environment for the local community and guarantee a sustainable future for the town’s landmark building.
Oakman’s Property Director, Malcolm Schooling, said: “One of the central elements is a new steel and glass extension, which is a vital part of the design that will maintain the sense of the historic courtyard and allow the original buildings to be viewed from within the new restaurant. We’re all thrilled that the project is now fully underway, and we hope that the people of Wokingham will approve of our careful restoration that is breathing new life into this prominent and significant building in the heart of the town.”
The design team has sourced materials, both new and old, and has been using traditional materials throughout, including brick, wood panelling, and restored plasterwork, to highlight the historical influences in Oakman’s restoration plans.
An impressive steel and timber staircase will lead to The Oak Room on the fully renovated first-floor. The panelled room’s large bay window overlooks the Market Place and, with its own bar, will provide an elegant Lounge and a private space for meetings, weddings, and other private celebrations. Malcolm explained: “With The Rose being a new addition to the Oakman family, and since the town was called Oakingham for almost two centuries, we felt it appropriate to name it The Oak Room.”
The Rose will be serving a full menu every day from breakfast to dinner in their large bar, dining room, the new conservatory and their alfresco terrace. Their dishes, mainly inspired by the Mediterranean, will all be created from scratch in the open theatre-style kitchen, home to their wood-fired pizza oven and Josper grill.
Will’s priority now is to start building his local team of 30 staff, both part and full time, to help him and his Head Chef, Matt Allen, look after their new customers. Will said: “We have some great career opportunities on offer. The lovely thing about working for Oakman is their incredible support for each individual. Everyone is encouraged to develop their skills, take responsibility, and be the best that they can be through our award-winning training and career development programme which is second to none. Matt, for example, was promoted to his new role from The Royal Foresters, where he was Deputy Head Chef, and he is looking for four Apprentices to join his team of 10.”
Oakman Group’s CEO, Dermot King said: “Until recently, Will was Manager at our flagship pub in Berkshire – The Royal Foresters in Ascot. He has enormous experience and is the right person to be opening The Rose and overseeing the project. Wokingham is gaining a good reputation as a food and entertainment destination and with our prominent position in the town, we are looking forward to playing our part in enriching its culture and vibrancy for both visitors and the local community.”
For those who would like to meet the opening team, Will is holding two Recruitment Days at the Town Hall opposite The Rose Inn on 14th and 17th August. More information on www.oakmaninnsrecruitment.co.uk