The Artichoke welcomed Dave and Stella in early 2006 with open arms. They were thrown in head first with the world cup beginning shortly after their take over. It was a busy time for the pub but an excellent start for Dave and Stella as they began to attract many new faces that soon became regulars. After the hustle and bustle of the world cup they were looking forward to enjoying a relaxing summer. They couldn't have been more wrong! By now the word had spread and the numbers were increasing by the day. Saturday night entertainment began to attracted as many new faces as old ones.

Due to the growing custom and the support and help of those that have been using the pub for many years, Dave and Stella thought it was time to give something back to their lovely customers. It was time for a change! With the help of some wonderful regulars, Dave and Stella set about refurbishing the entire pub, inside and out. Blue and pink carpet was replaced with polished parquet floors, the old furniture was pushed out in favour of comfy brown leather sofas and chairs and solid oak coffee tables. Finally, the dented bar stools that wobbled uncontrollably were replaced with luxury leather and wood ones. Full size tables and chairs were also put in. They also bought in new gaming machines that were asked for by customers and a working jukebox. It was requested that some of the old .Arti charm. must remain, so the pool room was left untouched and some of the old furniture was cleaned up and placed in there for nostalgic purposes. The outside was brightened up with flowers and new furniture and Stella and Dave's reign over the Artichoke had officially began.

Why do people keep coming back?

The Artichoke has a lot to offer so whatever you're looking for in a pub, the chances are you'll find it with us! We have eight (yes, eight) TVs, including one in the pool room. So much better than a big screen as no matter where you are in the pub, you'll be able to see one! All Barclays premiership matches are shown and we also have the Premier Plus channel so we NEVER miss a big match. If sport isn't your thing, you just want to have a good night out then our weekends are for you! Friday nights regularly see us bringing live music to you in the form of bands and talented vocalists, such as Dom (a firm favourite with our customers, especially our ladies) who regularly takes to the microphone for us with his beautiful soulful yet versatile voice. Saturday nights are party nights. Three Saturdays a month we have our beloved DJ Terry bringing us discos and Tokyo Joe's Karaoke. On top of Terry's talents we also host themed nights ranging from beach parties to 60s, 70s and 80s nights. For more details on such events check out our events listings to find out exactly what's going on. Recently we have also begun to host student nights for all of you hard working souls ;-) For more information about the student nights and the drinks promotions please go to our events page. As well as all this we have now started serving food throughout the day and hope to include a menu page in the website VERY soon!

So in summary, this is what we've got to offer you:

• Seven TVs showing a host of different sports
• All Barclays Premiership matches as well as all Premiership Plus matches
• A pool room that includes a darts board
• Gaming machines including slot machines and a mega touch
• A regularly updated touch screen Jukebox
• Karaoke, discos and theme nights
• Live music
• A family friendly atmosphere
• Student nights
• A range of food and bar snacks available throughout the day
• A range of soft drinks including coffees, teas, fruit juices and milkshakes
• All your normal drinks as well as real ales and cocktails
• And most importantly, a friendly atmosphere and smiling staff!

All we ask from you is to let us see your friendly faces! So pop in, say hello, have a drink, have a little dance, have a bit of grub or watch the match with your mates. Come and join the Artichoke family :-)