Rock‑ready redesign
The Hanbury, which has been trading under its current team for the past four years, announced on social media that it will soon undergo a long‑awaited facelift. Both the front and rear of the building are set to be refurbished, with new CGI images showing the exterior painted in black, complete with a striking mural and a classic marquee canopy listing upcoming bands and events in illuminated lettering.
The pub’s operators said the makeover was much needed, admitting that many passers‑by still didn’t realise the venue had reopened after the pandemic. They hope the new frontage will make the Hanbury more visible and underline its identity as a live music hub on the Kingsway.
“The look it deserves”
In a post to customers, the team wrote:
“Pretty much every day we get told ‘we didn’t know the place was back open’ down to the outside looking… well, tired. Hopefully this will get the word out that we are here, rocking out and having the best time. The Hanbury is finally gonna get the look it deserves.”
They also thanked regulars for their support over the past four years, saying the revamp was only possible because of the loyalty shown by customers.
Community reaction
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from regulars and visitors alike.
Dai Storey recalled bringing friends from the Valleys:
“I stood them outside and asked ‘would you think there was a pub here?’ They all said nope. We walked inside and they said wow. They had a great night with an amazing band on — and said they’d be back if they could find it again.”
Others praised the makeover as long overdue. Paul Devois said it was “good to see one of Swansea’s oldest pubs doing well,” while David Paynter added: “You guys have done a great job bringing the pub back to life. Well done all.”
Pat Mccondochie simply summed it up with:
“Fair play, looks awesome 🤘🤘.”
For many, the new marquee canopy is a highlight. Paula Barry said:
“I so love the signs above the door — at last you can advertise bands that are coming each week.”
And Paula Davies declared:
“Amazing news 👏 bring it on — Swansea, home of rock 🤘.”
Part of the Kingsway’s transformation
The makeover comes as the Kingsway continues to undergo major regeneration. The £12m Kingsway Infrastructure Project has already reshaped the street into a greener, more pedestrian‑friendly environment, with wider pavements, new planting and improved public spaces.
The Hanbury’s facelift will add to the sense of renewal, sitting alongside new office developments, hospitality venues and public realm improvements designed to make the Kingsway a more attractive destination for residents, workers and visitors.
Next steps
Work on the pub’s exterior is expected to begin shortly, with the team promising to keep customers updated as the project progresses.
