J D Wetherspoon has provided additional information regarding its upcoming branch launch in Europe, situated in a popular spot frequented by British vacationers. The pub chain confirmed that the first European branch will be at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport in Spain, a key location for travelers heading to Benidorm.
Alicante-Elche Airport is a favorite among Brits due to its numerous budget airline connections, with airlines like easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair offering direct flights from various UK airports to Alicante in under three hours.
The new pub, named Castell de Santa BÃ rbera, draws inspiration from an Alicante castle overlooking the sea. Its official opening is scheduled for January 29 at 8 am, providing a sunny setting for travelers to enjoy their favorite beverages.
Located in the airside departures at Alicante Airport, the pub will operate from 6 am to 9 pm daily, serving food until an hour before closing time. It will feature nearly 1,000 square feet of indoor seating and an outdoor terrace for additional seating.
Wetherspoons has hinted at its menu offerings, which will include popular UK dishes such as breakfasts, burgers, and pizzas, alongside local Spanish delicacies like garlic prawns and Spanish omelettes.
Tim Martin, the founder and chairman of Wetherspoon, expressed anticipation for the overseas expansion, aiming to open more pubs internationally, especially at airports. Alicante-Elche Airport, the busiest in the Valencian region, saw a record 18.3 million passengers in 2024.
In addition to the European venture, Wetherspoons plans to introduce four new outlets at Haven holiday parks by spring 2026, with locations at Cala Gran, Hopton, Lakeland, and Riviere Sands. The chain will also open six new pubs across the UK, including in Newcastle upon Tyne, Stockton-on-Tees, and Wetherby, adding to its existing network of over 800 pubs nationwide.