Northampton’s well-known watering hole has had a serious makeover. The Sir Pickering Phipps, a long-time staple on Wellingborough Road, is stepping back into the spotlight this December — reborn, refreshed, and ready to party as The Phipps.
After a dazzling £350,000 makeover, the venue has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space. Expect a sleek new bar that provides Instagram ready cocktails and a menu packed with premium sharing plates.
The Phipps is all about bold flavours, lively beats, and a buzzing atmosphere from the moment you step inside.
The revamp comes courtesy of McManus Pub Company, the family-run Northampton institution.
The Sir Pickering Phipps first opened its doors back in 1998 (famously launched by the late, great Barbara Windsor) and now enters a brand-new chapter for 2025.
“We’re incredibly proud of our Northampton heritage,” says Gary McManus, Managing Director of McManus Pub Company. “The Phipps has always been a key part of our story. This investment is about creating a vibrant, modern venue that reflects how people want to socialise today. It’s time to bring something fresh, energetic, and full of life to Wellingborough Road.”
From 7pm every weekend, The Phipps will turn up the volume with local DJs, live bands, and acoustic artists soundtracking the night with singalong anthems. Think Oasis, Ed Sheeran, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, Busted — and the kind of party tracks guaranteed to get the crowd joining in.
Friday and Saturday nights promise high-energy vibes and big nights out, while sports fans can still catch all the major matches on big screens throughout the week. Midweek brings its own community spirit, with open mic nights, quizzes, and local events, and Sundays will be all about hearty roasts and relaxed vibes.
The transformation has also created 15 new local jobs, bringing even more friendly faces and McManus warmth behind the bar.
Whether you’re after cocktails with friends, a pre-match pint, or a weekend that rolls into the early hours, The Phipps is shaping up to be Northampton’s next big thing for food, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.
📍 Opening early December 2025 — get ready to see, sip, and celebrate.
The Phipps is back, and it’s bolder than ever.