The Old Pub in Woy Woy has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation, with regional pub group Harvest Hotels unveiling the restored pub as the Woy Woy Hotel.
Since 1897, the heritage pub has been a cornerstone of the local community, undergoing its first renovation in decades to reveal a new beer garden, refurbished public bar, bistro dining and a sports bar with combined capacity for 900 patrons.
The renovation focused on modernising the space while retaining its rich heritage, and local architects Fabric were tasked with retaining as many historic features as possible, including the original timber cladding and cornice detailing.
Ramon Alvarez, Head of Marketing at Harvest Hotels, told Australian Hotelier: “The new design was intended to modernise the space in a contemporary way whilst paying homage to the pub’s heritage and coastal location.
“The heritage listed facade was kept intact, with a fresh coat of paint used to give it a facelift. The coastal theme was brought to life with the sailboat in the kids’ playground, and the pelican mural front and centre in the beer garden.”
Thomas Gurr, general manager of the Woy Woy Hotel, added: “You couldn’t recreate this character with an all-new build. The renovation has created unique spaces where you want to spend time with family and friends over a delicious meal. They feel cosy, elevated and distinctly part of Woy Woy.”
One of the biggest changes in the renovation was the conversion of the car park into a beer garden, creating a huge draw card for the venue with a shaded area, large TV screen, dedicated outdoor bar and a children’s play area.
“The bistro has an expanded footprint and updated furniture and fit-out to improve comfort, and it can now play host to larger community groups and functions,” says Alvarez.
“The front bar has an improved layout with increased bar taps and additional seating, while original wood cladding has been maintained as a nod to the pub’s heritage.
“The dedicated sports viewing area, formerly an outdoor seating and smoking area, has now been converted into a punter’s paradise with outdoor TAB and large screen TVs to catch all the action. Gaming has been relocated to the rear of the pub with dedicated entry from the car park. The larger footprint, but no increase of machines, means players have more privacy and comfort,” he continued.
Paying homage to Woy Woy’s history as a fishing village, the design incorporates a palette of blues and whites, which offer a soft contrast to features like recycled brick planters. The pub’s coastal roots are also honoured in the food menu, which showcases local seafood.
Highlights from the menu include barbecue octopus or black mussels, both served with salads and charred bread, available alongside a dedicated menu of Detroit-style pizzas and a children’s menu.
The doors to the new Woy Woy Hotel opened in December, and since then Harvest Hotels has already seen a sales boost.
“The renovation was designed to attract new customer segments, in particular families, community partners, local businesses and tourists from Sydney through to Newcastle, making the Woy Woy Hotel a destination venue,” says Alvarez.
“Response to date has been overwhelmingly positive, with locals impressed with the renovations and the new menu is a big hit. Trade is at an all-time high and we hope that it will continue on throughout the year,” Alvarez added.
