Wetherspoon’s plans to open its first pub outside the UK and Ireland, located in Alicante airport, in January. This pub will operate daily from 6 a.m., targeting travelers awaiting their flights. The new location marks Wetherspoon’s debut in continental Europe, with intentions to expand further in the region.
The airport pub, named Castell de Santa Bàrbera after a historical coastal fortress, aims to serve holidaymakers returning from Spain’s Costa Blanca. In addition to traditional pub fare, such as fry-ups and burgers, the establishment will offer local delicacies, including garlic prawns and Spanish omelette.
This expansion into mainland Europe follows a period of declining growth in Wetherspoon’s sales, though the company experienced an increase of 3.7% in revenue over the first 14 weeks of the financial year. The new pub will occupy approximately 93 square meters and will include an outdoor terrace for customers.
Tim Martin, Wetherspoon’s founder and chairman, expressed enthusiasm for the opening, suggesting it will attract travelers. He mentioned plans to continue opening additional pubs abroad, with a focus on airport locations.
While Wetherspoon’s already operates in the Republic of Ireland, this marks a significant milestone as the chain has not previously established a presence in continental Europe. The company has experience with airport operations; it opened its first airport pub at Heathrow Terminal 4 in 1992 and has since expanded to other UK airports such as Gatwick, Stansted, and Edinburgh.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/nov/21/wetherspoons-opens-first-pub-spain-alicante-airport-eu