J D Wetherspoon has unveiled additional information about its upcoming branch launch in Europe, situated in a favored location among British holidaymakers. The pub giant confirmed earlier this year that the first European Spoons will be positioned at the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport in Spain, a well-known stop for British travelers en route to Benidorm.
Alicante-Elche Airport is a popular choice for Brits due to its numerous budget airline connections. Airlines like easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair operate direct flights between various UK airports and Alicante, with flight durations typically under three hours.
The new establishment’s name, Castell de Santa Bàrbera, draws inspiration from an Alicante castle overlooking the sea. Wetherspoons has announced the pub’s grand opening on January 29 at 8 am, allowing thirsty travelers to enjoy their preferred pint in the sunny setting.
The pub’s location has been confirmed at the airside departures, non-Schengen zone of Alicante Airport, with operating hours from 6 am to 9 pm every day, serving food until an hour before closing. The pub will feature nearly 1,000 square feet of indoor seating and an outdoor terrace for additional seating.
Wetherspoons has hinted at its menu offerings, pledging to serve a variety of UK classics like breakfasts, burgers, and pizzas, alongside local Spanish delicacies such as garlic prawns and Spanish omelettes.
Founder and chairman Tim Martin expressed enthusiasm for the overseas expansion, anticipating a warm reception from travelers departing Alicante Airport. The brand aims to establish multiple pubs abroad in the future, especially at airports.
Alicante-Elche Airport is recognized as the busiest in the Valencian region, accommodating a record 18.3 million passengers in 2024.
In addition to the European venture, Wetherspoons plans to introduce four new branches within Haven holiday parks by spring 2026, including locations in Blackpool, Norfolk, the Lake District, and Cornwall.
The existing network of over 800 Wetherspoon pubs across the UK will soon be joined by six new establishments in cities like Newcastle upon Tyne, Stockton-on-Tees, and Wetherby, Yorkshire, as part of the company’s expansion strategy.