A much-anticipated Twickenham pub reopening is on the horizon, as the former Roxie Steak and Taphouse prepares to welcome patrons once more after shutting its doors in 2019.
Set to relaunch in early June, the venue will re-emerge under a new identity—The Rose & Lion—with a vibrant atmosphere and a strong focus on interactive entertainment and community spirit.
Twickenham Pub Reopening in June After £520k Investment and Six-Year Closure
The transformation comes on the back of a significant £520,000 investment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs and experienced local operators Steve Orme and James Thomson. The refurbishment is expected to create ten new jobs, breathing life into the local hospitality scene.
Mr Orme and Mr Thomson, lifelong friends and seasoned publicans, are already known for their success with The Red Lion in Shepperton and The Golden Grove in Chertsey. Their latest venture promises a fresh take on the traditional pub model, offering a distinctive experience not currently available in the Twickenham area.
Mr Orme said: “We were blown away when we first saw The Rose & Lion interior. Although just a shell, we could see it would make a fantastic open sociable space with tall ceilings and large windows. It will be a great place to hang out, with shuffleboard, AR darts, and table football all adding to the fun.
There will also be a couple of retro arcade machine tables, which can be played or just used as a place to eat or drink.”
The pub is being designed with entertainment in mind. The owners plan to host live music events on weekends and introduce Music Bingo on Saturday mornings, a feature already well-received at their other venues.
Mr Orme added: “We’ve got lots of exciting plans for The Rose & Lion including live music at the weekends and Music Bingo on Saturday mornings, which has proved hugely popular at our other pubs.
Given the pub’s location in Twickenham, the home of rugby, we will of course show live sports but will also screen different games like Ice Hockey and the American National Football League.”
The menu will highlight crowd-pleasers such as smashed burgers, pizzas, wings and ribs—all affordably priced but crafted with premium ingredients. Meat will be sourced from the well-regarded Chiswick butcher Rodney Macken, and dishes will explore bold spices and international flavours.
Beverage offerings will include:
- Craft ales and cask beers
- Premium draught options
- A curated wine list and spirits
- A wide variety of soft drinks
In light of recent changes in UK licensing regulations, such as those affecting takeaway pints, venues like The Rose & Lion are also expected to adapt creatively to evolving pub culture and customer habits.
Stylish Interior with Classic London Flair
The redesign of The Rose & Lion aims to capture the feel of a traditional London bar. Expect a central bar, exposed brickwork, panelled walls, and a mix of wood and tiled flooring. Large windows and lofty ceilings will flood the space with natural light, creating a welcoming environment.
Other features include:
- A raised seating area for 25, perfect for private bookings or entertainment nights
- Six strategically placed screens throughout the pub for sports and events
- Fully refurbished toilets, including an accessible facility with baby changing options
Externally, the pub will be repainted in a bold black finish, contrasted with white-framed windows and red doors. A stylish ‘Beavertown Secret Courtyard’ is being built at the rear, complete with:
- Decking and paving
- Palm trees and lush planters
- Mixed seating arrangements
- An outdoor TV screen
- A striking mural to complete the look
This revival signals not only the return of a local favourite but also the introduction of a fresh and dynamic social venue for the Twickenham community.
