The British pub chain Wetherspoons is set to open its very first international venue overseas, marking a historic step in the company's expansion. The new pub will be located at Alicante -Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport in Spain, a favourite holiday hotspot for UK travellers.
A Taste of Britain Before Take-Off
Slated to open in the airport's departures lounge next month, the pub is expected to be named the Castell de Santa Barbera. It is strategically positioned to serve British holidaymakers a final slice of home before they jet back to the UK. The venue will operate seven days a week from 6am until 9pm, offering a familiar menu of traditional drinks, Full English breakfasts, burgers, and pizzas.
The Beginning of a Global Ambition
Founder and chairman Sir Tim Martin confirmed this launch is just the start of the chain's international ambitions. He stated the company aims to open a number of pubs overseas in the coming months and years, with airport locations being a key focus. This forms part of wider plans to open 30 new pubs in the current financial year.
"We are very much looking forward to opening our first overseas pub," Sir Tim said. "We believe it will be popular with people travelling home from Alicante airport."
Domestic Growth Continues Alongside
While targeting international growth, Wetherspoons has not taken its eye off the UK market. On January 13, 2026, the chain opened a new branch in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, named The Chiltern. This continues the expansion of a brand that already boasts over 800 locations across Britain, including several in cities like Birmingham.
The dual strategy of domestic and international openings signals a confident period of growth for the well-known pub operator, bringing its distinctive brand of affordable food and drink to new audiences.
