Nestled in the upper town of picturesque Bridgnorth, The Shakespeare is a quintessential English alehouse.
Shakespeare Arms
Key Information
About The Opportunity
Nestled in the upper town of picturesque Bridgnorth, The Shakespeare is a quintessential English alehouse rich in history and character. Dating back to 1792, it has long been a cornerstone of the local community, a place where people come together to enjoy great beer, hearty food, and genuine hospitality.
In 2018, Joule’s Brewery restored this much-loved pub with a vision to preserve its heritage while celebrating everything that makes a traditional English pub special. The result is a timeless, welcoming space that continues to attract both locals and visitors looking to relax, enjoy a pint, and soak up the atmosphere.
Looking ahead, the brewery remains fully committed to investing in The Shakespeare. A comprehensive refurbishment is planned for 2026 to enhance facilities, refresh the interiors, and ensure this historic pub continues to thrive as a vibrant and welcoming destination for years to come. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced publican to take on a pub with deep local roots and genuine growth potential.
Trading Style
The Shakespeare offers enormous scope to develop its trading potential. A separate 60-seater function room provides space for private events, celebrations, and community gatherings, creating opportunities to strengthen the pubs ties with the local area.
Live music is something Joule’s Brewery is passionate about, and The Shakespeare lends itself beautifully to becoming a local hub for entertainment. There is great potential to build a lively rhythm of the week with regular music nights, quizzes, and other classic pub occasions that bring people together.
With a focus on quality traditional pub food and well-kept Joule’s cask ales, the next chapter for The Shakespeare will celebrate the best of British pub culture while continuing to evolve as a cherished meeting place in the heart of Bridgnorth.
About the Local Area
Bridgnorth is a historic market town divided into High Town and Low Town, offering charming views, rich heritage, and a strong sense of community. From the ruins of Bridgnorth Castle to the Severn Valley Railway and the famous Cliff Railway, the town is filled with character and charm. Surrounded by the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s a destination that draws both tourists and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year, with riverside walks, market days, and local festivals adding to its appeal.
We’re looking for someone who:
What’s Planned at the Shakespeare’s Development?
The Shakespeare is set for a careful refresh, an evolution that enhances everything people already love about this historic Taphouse while introducing new layers of comfort, character, and craft. Our aim is to preserve the pub’s warmth and individuality while refining its spaces, from a reimagined bar and refreshed frontage to a new wine bar celebrating Château Bessan. The plans will also include updates to the function and events areas, improved flow through the trading spaces, and refreshed finishes and furnishings throughout. Every detail is being considered to ensure The Shakespeare remains as welcoming, flexible, and full of charm as ever, a true reflection of Joule’s heritage and hospitality.
Take a look at our latest developments Developments – Joule’s Brewery.
The Bar
The double-sided bar is the heart of the pub, offering a lively and welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for enjoying a drink with friends. It serves a selection of Joules cask and cold beers, all brewed just 30 miles away with pure Shropshire mineral water, delivering an authentic taste of local brewing.
Function and Events
The Boat House is a versatile function space designed for private events, celebrations, and community gatherings. With its own separate entrance from the main bar, it offers both privacy and flexibility, making it perfect for occasions of all sizes. Whether it’s an intimate party or a larger function, the Boat House can be tailored to suit your needs, creating memorable experiences while helping the pub connect with new customers and the local community.
Pub Food
The Shakespeare is renowned for its traditional pub food, offering the perfect setting for enjoying a hearty Sunday roast with family, catching up with friends over a satisfying pub lunch, or celebrating a special occasion. Whether you're after a classic dish or something a bit more adventurous, our menu has something for everyone. With a welcoming atmosphere, great service and locally sourced ingredients, it’s the ideal spot to unwind with good company.
Live Music
The Shakespeare offers a fantastic opportunity to develop live music as part of the pubs weekly rhythm. The space, atmosphere, and community support provide a perfect canvas for an incoming tenant to grow music nights and create a vibrant social hub.
Outdoor Drinking
This Taphouse also features a spacious beer courtyard, perfect for soaking up the sun with a refreshing pint of Green Monkey. For those who prefer a little shade, the courtyard includes a comfortable covered area, making it an inviting spot to relax in any weather.
Town Centre Location
Town Centre Location Located on West Castle Street in the High Town of Bridgnorth, The Shakespeare benefits from a prime position just a short walk from the historic Castle and the iconic Cliff Railway. The pub is also conveniently close to local shops, cafes, and other amenities, ensuring a steady flow of foot traffic. This central location creates a fantastic opportunity for consistent trade, attracting both locals and visitors alike throughout the year.
