How the Yates Wine Lodge in Bolton is set to look after a rebrand as a Slug and Lettuce bar

One of Bolton’s most iconic pubs is set for a major transformation as Yates’ Wine Lodge becomes a a Slug and Lettuce bar. The historic Yates’ pub, a Grade II listed building on Bradshawgate, has been a stop off on the social scene for generations of Boltonians enjoying a night out.

Pub group Stonegate has now decided to re-brand the pub under the Slug and Lettuce brand. A planning application submitted this month to install three illuminated signs contains an image of how the building is set to look once new signs are installed.

Previous proposals include the removal of the internal podium, stage and the reconfiguration of the downstairs bar and server area. Stonegate also intends to introduce Slug and Lettuce ‘thematic features’ such as timber rafts and seating booths. The toilets at the premises would also be upgraded.

Bolton Council’s planning department will decide on the plans for the building, which has been Grade II listed since 1999, in due course. The site is described as a ‘wine lodge, built in 1906, terracotta with slate roof’. The Historic England listing expands on the architectural merit of the building.

What has Stonegate said about the Yates Wine Lodge becoming a Slug and Lettuce?

Planning documents lodged with Bolton Council for the rebrand said: “The existing Yates’ is a prominently sited local venue and it is the intention to upgrade to the more contemporary and popular Slug and Lettuce brand format.

“Works proposed will respect the building’s heritage status. It will help safeguard and future proof the important role it plays both economically and socially in the town.

“We have always been aware to produce a design concept that compliments the surrounding conservation area and is sympathetic to the listed building. We feel the simple design compliments the building.”

On the history of the building, the application to install the signs said: “Our design team has looked at all aspects of creating a signage scheme to suit the Grade II listed building.”

Stonegate says the Slug and Lettuce brand “is is all about getting together over heavenly cocktail trees, bottomless brunches and afternoon teas with friends.”

It added: “At night we transform into the perfect meet-up venue, the ideal atmosphere for a night of partying, dancing and of course cocktails.”