Joule's Brewery reveals exciting plans to invest in 'quintessential town centre pub'

There are no plans to turn the pub into a care home and the information related to a previous historic proposal for the Great Hales area which was included in the current application for information.

We would like to apologise for the error and set the record straight - outlining that the current application is in fact to improve the Red Lion as a town-centre pub, and preserve the venue's heritage.

Joule’s Brewery has announced its latest investment in the Red Lion - the firm's flagship brewery tap located at the heart of Market Drayton. 

As part of the brewery's ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing the historic character of the Grade II listed building, while responding to evolving customer needs, it has submitted a planning application to Shropshire Council.

This project will involve a series of carefully considered internal and external improvements designed to elevate the Red Lion’s offering as a quintessential town centre pub while preserving its heritage.

Anna Brakel, development director said: "’We’re delighted to share our news on the further investment in our Brewery Hometown, Market Drayton.

"With construction making impressive progress across the way at the Stag, a purpose built venue, brewery visitor facility and local heritage centre, we are delighted to be able to share our plans and proposal with the community for the Red Lion in Market Drayton.

"Our latest news, centres around enhancing the brewery site to become a community hub, somewhere everyone is welcome to gather.

"The Red Lion, a grade II listed building, is our Flagship Brewery Tap and dates back to 1623.

"The pub will be enhanced; we want to increase the space in our main bar, which can get a little tight when busy so that people can enjoy a beer in the shadow of our brewery tower. 

"The kitchen will also be enhanced to develop our classic pub menu and more covers.

"We hope to enhance the dining area to complement that increased capacity. We’re excited for you all to see the plans we have been working on."

Since acquiring the Red Lion, Joule’s Brewery has made significant investments to ensure it remains a thriving community hub.

It said the latest project reflects its dedication to adapting to changing customer needs while respecting the historical significance of the building.

With the adjacent Stag’s Head visitor centre and museum nearing completion, this project will align the Red Lion’s offering to better serve the local community and its growing reputation as a centre for brewing heritage and culture.

This investment also aligns with the Market Drayton Town Plan, supporting tourism, cultural development, and local enterprise. As a brewery rooted in Market Drayton’s rich brewing history, we are committed to contributing to the vibrancy and prosperity of our town.

Key Elements of the Proposal

Improved facilities for modern customers - A new internal staircase will provide better access to the first floor, where expanded and upgraded ladies’ toilets will be located. This change enables improved ground-floor facilities, including a spacious, accessible WC.

- A first-floor meeting room for up to 10 people will be created, offering a unique, informal space for local clubs and societies to gather.

Enhanced Dining Experience

- The commercial kitchen will be relocated and upgraded to meet modern dining expectations, focusing on a high-quality pub food offering. The new kitchen will feature bespoke equipment and an efficient layout to support a seamless dining experience.

Thoughtful External Improvements

- The removal of a dated outbuilding and the extension of the existing roofline will create a more cohesive and visually appealing frontage, blending harmoniously with the brewery’s architecture.

Preservation of Historical Features

- As part of the kitchen relocation, the brewery’s unique Mouseman panelling will be preserved and reinstalled to maintain the character of the space, ensuring that the pub retains its charm.