Weavers Inn reopened in Bodmin with St Austell Brewery refurb

The Weavers Inn, one of St Austell Brewery’s managed operator pubs in Cornwall, welcomed its first guests this weekend under the leadership of experienced operator Annie Rafiqi and her father, Omar.

As part of the reopening, St Austell Brewery has carried out a refurbishment of the pub.

The renovation includes the installation of a traditional timber bar, new autumnal colour palettes featuring rustic greens and warm rust reds, and the introduction of new carpets, wall panelling and heritage inspired wallpaper and artwork throughout.

The brewery says the refurb has "refreshed the building’s interiors while preserving its historic character. "

Annie brings more than a decade of pub and hospitality experience, including two and a half years running a busy Craft Union pub before taking on The Weavers Inn.

Annie has relocated to Cornwall with her partner Paul, their four-month-old son George and her parents Margaret and Omar (Image: St Austell Brewery)

Originally from Redditch, she dreamed of relocating to Cornwall, and when the opportunity arose, she saw it as the perfect moment to make the move.

She, her partner Paul, their four-month-old son George, and her parents Margaret and Omar, have all relocated to Bodmin to run the pub together.

Annie said: “Cornwall has felt like home since I was a child, and when I saw The Weavers come up, I knew the time was right. My best friend lives five minutes away and everything just fell into place.

"We’re a real family team and we’re excited to bring our energy and experience to the town.

"The Weavers is a beautiful pub with so much potential. We want to bring it back to life at the heart of Bodmin.”

Annie first trained in an independent cask ale bar ten years ago, learning cellar care directly from brewers, and has since developed a strong love for wet led pubs and the community spirit they create.

Alongside the refreshed interiors, she plans to reinvigorate the pub with a lively entertainment programme and a warm, social atmosphere. The Weavers will host live music, karaoke nights and a more laid back Sunday ‘live lounge’ feel.

Annie and her family also hope to reintroduce food at a later stage.

Live sport will return with new screens, alongside a refreshed darts area, a games space, a pool table and a jukebox.

Annie is also adding personal touches, including a piano for anyone to play. “My dad plays, so we’ll be putting one in the pub,” she said. “There’s nothing better than people joining in with a singalong, especially on match days.”

The Weavers team ready to welcome customers again (Image: St Austell Brewery)

Gareth James, operations director for St Austell Brewery, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Annie and her family to The Weavers Inn. Their energy, experience and genuine passion for pubs shine through, and we’re confident they’ll bring something really special to the heart of Bodmin.

“The Weavers is an important pub in the town, and it’s fantastic to see it reopening with a fresh offer and renewed enthusiasm behind it.

"We’re committed to working with great business partners who share our love of community pubs, and we’re excited to see The Weavers thrive under Annie’s leadership.”