Brewing and hospitality giant Marston’s has officially launched its new family-focused pub concept, with the Knot and Plough in Stafford reopening as the first-ever ‘Woodie’s’ venue on 30 July.
The popular local pub has undergone a major refurbishment to transform it into a welcoming space for families, with a strong emphasis on fun, affordability and community connection.
Key features include the new Woodie’s Den — a woodland-themed indoor area with games, crafts, karaoke and quizzes — as well as an outdoor play zone and a self-serve Sweet Factory where children can trade tokens for treats. A full kids’ menu, pub classics and adult dining zones ensure the venue caters to all age groups.
To mark the relaunch, Marston’s is offering a ‘Pint For Your Past’ incentive, inviting locals to share their favourite memories of the Knot and Plough in exchange for a free pint. These stories will be displayed on a new memory wall over the opening weekend.
General Manager Clare Edwards said: “We’re so excited to be transforming into a Woodie’s. The Knot and Plough is such an important part of our local community, and we want to get as many local families involved as possible.”
The pub is also hosting a family festival on Saturday 2 August, featuring face painting, crafts, live music and more. Local families with babies born in the past year are being invited as VIP guests, with newborns receiving a keepsake Woodie’s onesie.
With offers including ‘Kids Eat for £1’ and free kids’ meals on Wednesdays, Marston’s is aiming to make eating out more affordable during the school holidays, while building a stronger community focus in its pub offer.
