The Sir Ronald Wates will become the UK’s first university-owned Wetherspoon franchise, bringing the popular pub chain’s food, drinks and social atmosphere to the heart of campus.
JD Wetherspoon is set to open a brand-new pub at the University of Surrey on Tuesday 14 July 2026, marking a first for both the company and the UK higher education sector.
Named The Sir Ronald Wates, the new venue is located within the newly refurbished Wates House building on the university’s Stag Hill campus. The pub will welcome students, university staff, visitors and members of the local community, serving Wetherspoon’s full all-day menu alongside its extensive range of drinks, mobile app ordering and table service.
A Historic Name with Strong University Links
The new pub has been named in honour of Sir Ronald Wates (1907–1986), a leading British builder and property developer whose family helped fund the original Wates House building.
Sir Ronald played a significant role in expanding the family business, the Wates Group, and in 1966 he and his brothers established the Wates Foundation to support educational, charitable and community projects throughout the UK. He was awarded a knighthood in 1975 in recognition of his philanthropic work.
The Wates family has given its blessing for the university pub to carry Sir Ronald’s name, continuing its long-standing connection with the University of Surrey.
Complete Refurbishment
The former Wates House bar has undergone an extensive refurbishment ahead of opening.
The project includes a brand-new bar and drinks dispense system, allowing the venue to serve Wetherspoon’s full drinks range, alongside a completely new commercial kitchen capable of delivering the company’s full food menu.
The 5,500-square-foot interior has also been transformed with new lighting, artwork, signage, fixtures and fittings to create a modern and welcoming social space.
A bespoke carpet has been designed specifically for the venue, featuring oak leaf patterns inspired by Surrey’s woodland heritage together with the key symbol from the University of Surrey’s crest, representing learning and education.
A First for UK Universities
The Sir Ronald Wates represents a significant milestone as it becomes the first university in the UK to own and operate a franchise under the JD Wetherspoon business model.
The partnership gives the University of Surrey access to Wetherspoon’s established supply chain, purchasing power and operational systems, while the university retains responsibility for staffing, licensing and day-to-day management of the premises.
Looking Ahead
JD Wetherspoon Chief Executive John Hutson welcomed the new partnership, saying the company was delighted to see a Wetherspoon pub opening at the University of Surrey and believes it will become popular with both students and the wider public.
University of Surrey Chief Operating Officer Will Davies said the new venue would provide staff, students and the local community with a high-quality, great-value food and drink offering. He added that by combining the university’s facilities with Wetherspoon’s reputation and supply network, The Sir Ronald Wates is expected to become a vibrant social hub at the centre of campus life.
The Sir Ronald Wates officially opens its doors on Tuesday 14 July 2026, creating a unique partnership that could pave the way for similar collaborations between universities and hospitality operators in the future.
Have you visited a university pub before? Let us know what you think of Wetherspoon’s latest opening in the comments below.
