The Arkwrights in Preston has reopened following a £280,546 investment by Proper Pubs, the community wet-led division of Admiral Taverns.
Located on Plungington Road, the pub officially reopened on 1 October following a refurbishment of its interior and exterior.
Aiden Bowley has taken over as operator of The Arkwrights after completing the Proper Pubs Pathways Training Programme.
Launched earlier this year, the 12-week programme combines practical experience across several pubs with structured online learning before participants take responsibility for running a venue independently.
Bowley was selected for the programme while working as Assistant Manager at another Proper Pubs venue, The Plungington in Preston.
The refurbishment at The Arkwrights has introduced new flooring, fixtures, fittings, furniture and décor throughout the pub.
Externally, the property has received new paintwork and signage.
The drinks offer includes draught lager, stout and cider alongside wines, spirits, soft drinks and a new cocktail menu.
Aiden Bowley, Operator of The Arkwrights, said: “Taking over the Arkwrights has been an incredible experience, especially seeing the refurbishment come to life. Completing the Pathways Programme gave me invaluable skills, as well as the confidence I needed to take this next step in my career and take on my first pub. The backing from the Proper Pubs team has been second to none from day one and I am grateful for all their support.
“The response from the local community since we reopened has blown me away. We’ve already welcomed so many people through the doors to see the new space, and the energy in the pub has been fantastic. I’m really proud of the start we’ve made, and I’m excited to serve locals here for many years to come!”
The pub will operate a regular entertainment programme including live music, karaoke, games nights, pool and darts.
A student night will also take place every Thursday, featuring drinks offers, open mic sessions and games.
Bowley plans to support the local community through food collections for a nearby foodbank and fundraising towards the installation of a defibrillator, alongside support for other local causes.
Nikki Greenhalgh, Operations Director for Proper Pubs, said: “It has been fantastic to welcome Aiden as the new operator of the Arkwrights, especially as a graduate of our Pathways Programme. I have no doubt he will make a huge success of running his own venue. Since reopening, Aidan has really hit the ground running, and on behalf of everyone at Proper Pubs, I’d like to congratulate Aiden on all his hard work and wish him the very best of luck for the future.
“Bringing people together and creating vibrant community hubs is at the heart of what we do, and we are so glad to see another successful community pub opening.”
Proper Pubs operates more than 200 pubs across England, Scotland and Wales and runs a programme of community fundraising and donation initiatives across its estate.
During Easter 2026, its pubs collected 21,619 Easter eggs for local charities, while operators raised £80,255 for Admiral Taverns’ charity partner Claire House Hospice during 2025.
The business has also supported foodbanks across the UK and participated in a defibrillator installation campaign.