Exeter Pub Undergoes Transformation

A 17th century thatched pub in Exeter has had a glorious makeover as well as launching an exciting new menu from Michelin-trained head chef Robert Palmer and team.

Work has been underway at The Blue Ball Inn behind Sandy Park stadium to knock down its existing lean to which served as an outdoor seating area, replacing it with an impressive new glass topped extension.

The addition to the St Austell Brewery-owned pub will mean diners can enjoy a bright and airy space for dining or hire it out for events. The transformation also include a spruce up with a more sophisticated colour scheme and décor throughout, cosy drinking spaces in the main pub and bigger toilet facilities for customers.

To mark the reveal, tenants Adam Holland and Natalie Radford will be throwing a party, which will also coincide with the five-year anniversary of Adam and Natalie taking on the pub.

Adam said: “The addition of the new orangery has really transformed the space, opening up our dining area with a beautifully designed permanent area for people to come and enjoy."

“The investment from St Austell Brewery to revamp our space was much needed and has exceeded our expectations of how much it enhances the pub. We can’t wait for people to come and enjoy it!”

The space has been kitted out to provide 44 more dining covers, adding to its existing 80 covers. The team has also taken on new chefs and created a fresh menu using the best of Devon produce – and they’re working towards gaining a coveted rosette. Natalie added:

“The pub’s overhaul has tied all the spaces together. People have been coming in and commenting on just how great it looks – it really has the wow factor. We’ve even had emails praising the makeover, which we have been blown away with. Our customers are in for a real treat when they come to visit us.”

The pub, which is popular with locals and rugby fans due to its proximity to Exeter Chiefs’ stadium, also has a large beer garden complete with a festival style stretch tent and sheltered areas for outdoor drinking and dining, as well as a large grassy car park which welcomes Britstop campers.

There special event will take place at the Blue Ball on September 28th. There will be live music from Cal Fousler, face painting, a barbeque, cocktails and a bouncy castle (weather permitting) from 4-6pm.