Sir Ronald Wates pub opens at the University of Surrey on 14 July

The Sir Ronald Wates pub will be located at the refurbished Wates House building, at the university’s Stag Hill campus.

It will be open to students and university staff, as well as visitors and the local community, and will offer Wetherspoon’s full all-day menu, with mobile app ordering and table service.

The pub takes its name from Sir Ronald Wates (1907-86), whose family funded the original building.

A British builder and property developer, Ronald played a central role in expanding the family firm – Wates Group. In 1966, he and his brothers founded the Wates Foundation, supporting social, educational and community causes across the UK. In 1975, he was knighted for his charitable and philanthropic services.

The Wates family gave permission for the pub to carry his name, continuing their long association with the University of Surrey.

A full refurbishment of the existing Wates House student bar has taken place.

Refurbishment work includes a new bar and drinks dispense system, allowing for a new produce range, as well as a new kitchen, enabling the pub to offer the full Wetherspoon menu.

The new look pub interior, which is approximately 5,500sq ft., also includes redecoration and new lighting, artwork and signage, as well as new fixtures and fittings.

A new bespoke carpet has been fitted. The design is inspired by Surrey’s woodland heritage, with a prominent oak leaf pattern, as well as incorporating the key from the University of Surrey crest, which symbolises learning.

The partnership with the University of Surrey will see the first UK university own and operate a franchise under the Wetherspoon business model.

It gives the University of Surrey access to Wetherspoon’s supply chain and operational systems whilst maintaining full control of staffing, licensing and premises management.

The Sir Ronald Wates pub will be open from 8 am until midnight Sunday to Thursday and 8 am until 1 am Friday and Saturday.  Food will be served throughout the day, from opening until 11 pm every day.