PLANNING permission has been secured to breathe new life into the historic Walton Arms, a beautiful red‐brick pub originally built in 1800 and rebuilt in 1875 on the outskirts of Warrington.
It will be preserving its soaring chimneys, stone mullion windows and mock Tudor frontage while introducing signature Italian small plates menu, a refreshed garden for al fresco dining and more than 30 new local jobs as part of Pesto Restaurants founded by Neil and Sara Gatt.
The much-loved pub, currently part of the Vintage Inns collection, will undergo a carefully considered renovation that retains its historic charm while introducing the warm, welcoming atmosphere and unique dining experience that guests have come to expect from Pesto.
The Walton Arms is a striking brick-built structure dating back to 1800, with tall, decorated chimneys, stone mullioned windows, and a distinctive mock Tudor-style frontage above its grand central entrance. Rebuilt in 1875, it has served the community in various ways over the centuries including as a halt for horse-drawn buses at the turn of the 20th century. Pesto is proud to continue its legacy as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Pesto at The Walton Arms will mark the company’s 12th restaurant, and represents a new chapter in the brand’s growth across the North West. Known for its authentic Italian piattini – small plates perfect for sharing – Pesto offers guests a relaxed yet stylish environment, ideal for everything from laid-back lunches to special occasions.
Sara Gatt, Co-Founder of Pesto Restaurants, said:“The Walton Arms is a beautiful building with real character, and we’re thrilled to breathe new life into it. Our aim is to create a space that honours the pub’s heritage while offering something new and exciting for locals and visitors alike. We can’t wait to bring the Pesto experience to Warrington.”
The renovation will include a full interior refresh with thoughtful design touches throughout, a new bar area, and updated garden space ready for al fresco dining.
Pesto at The Walton Arms is expected to open early September and we are actively recruiting. Whilst they are retaining existing staff, they are also looking to add over 40 staff from the local area front-of-house and back-of-house roles and chefs at all levels. To apply, email your CV to [email protected]
