Leicester's The Donkey and Anstey's Crown Inn to reopen after £418k and £250k refurbishments

The historic Leicester music venue The Donkey on Welford Road is undergoing a £418,000 revamp by Heineken‑owned Star Pubs and new publicans Ollie and Jonathan Wainright. Work began on 3 August, with the pub expected to reopen by mid‑September and a festival‑style garden to follow. The renovation will modernise the interior, add a new stage and upgrade the cellar, and create about 20 new jobs.

In the nearby village of Anstey, Star Pubs is investing £250,000 to restore the 1850s Crown Inn, closed since February. New licensee Kam Chaggar aims to make the pub a community hub, preserving original features while adding contemporary décor, a private dining room, and an outdoor bar for up to 140 guests. The venue will serve a seasonal menu using local suppliers, host live music and events, and remain dog‑friendly. Both projects are part of Star Pubs' effort to revive local pubs and support the Leicestershire social and cultural scene.