The Valentine

Located in Aintree, Merseyside, The Valentine is an L&T conversion to Proper Pub for Stonegate Pub Group, which was refurbished and re-opened to the public in March 2022.

The design brief was to upgrade and refresh the finishes and furnishings throughout the customer area, adding more carpet to soften the interior and a variety of seating, while keeping to the ethos of the Proper Pub brand.

Operationally, the intention was to not to re-position the pub but to enhance the existing character. The Valentine is a popular venue for dining, music, race days, and sports viewing, and now features a darts board, pool table and a dance floor. The sports focus was improved through providing a dedicated area for competitive games, and enabling sports viewing in all seating areas. A flexible area which includes ‘bookable booth seats with private TV can be used for both sport or family dining. An external bar, with pizza ovens was added to the front area, primarily for race days, and the internal bars and toilets were also upgraded.

The furnishings, finishes, artwork and lighting stay true to the ‘proper pub’ concept of creating a traditional space in the heart of the community which invites customers to relax, refuel and socialise in a welcoming environment.