Milton Keynes pub bucks industry pressures by slashing pint prices for Christmas
Popular Fenny Stratford pub The Chequers is showing community spirit and bucking industry pressures by slashing beer prices in the run-up to Christmas.
The 17th-century pub has seen turnover treble since reopening three years ago and they are giving something back by reduce pint prices from £4.10 to £3.95 between Friday, November 6, and December 31. That poigniantly returns prices to those introduced when The Chequers reopened in 2023.
The pub said the 15p reduction applies to pints of draught beer, lager and cider.
Landlord Aiden and his business partner Owen reopened the pub in 2023, focusing on affordable drinks and organising community activities to attract customers.
They say customer numbers have increased significantly, helping the pub keep its prices down.
Aiden said: “We work long hours and pride ourselves in keeping a friendly welcoming atmosphere.
“Without the support of our customers we could not operate and keep the business running we therefore try to keep pricing competitive whilst offering a variety of entertainment catering for all types.”
Aiden and Owen’s approach has included establishing a darts team, art club and book club, alongside weekly quizzes, monthly silent discos and regular live music featuring local performers.
Customers can also take part in a monthly bring-your-own-cheese night, sharing their selections while the pub provides crackers and pickles.
The pub has hosted themed evenings, including a 1920s speakeasy event where customers had to discover a secret password to gain entry.
Its annual beer and music festival over the August bank holiday weekend has also grown in popularity.
The Chequers has also been recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), receiving a Phoenix from the Ashes award following its reopening.
Owen said: “I’m really proud of us for turning the pub around, we’ve brought good beer back to Fenny Stratford and with so many great brewers around us, it’s been fun doing it!
“We’re also very proud to be featured in the Good Beer Guide for the second year running, so it’s nice to see all of the hard work has been recognised by beer lovers.”
The Chequers is located at 8 Watling St, Fenny Stratford, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK2 2BY.