BAFTA-Winning Actor Joe Sims Opens New Pub At Kingswood Care Home

BAFTA-winning actor and BBC Radio Bristol presenter Joe Sims pulled the first pint at Avon Valley’s new pub, the Stags Head Inn, on Monday 19 October, officially opening the latest addition in Kingswood, Bristol.

Joe, best known for his roles in Broadchurch, Doctor Who, Father Brown and Casualty, was welcomed by residents, family members and the homes team, who packed into the new bar to cheer him on and toast the Stags Head Inn.

The Stags Head Inn has been created from a previously unused lounge. Led by Well-being Coordinator Shelley Reeson, team members at the home have transformed it into a social space with a purpose. It features a jukebox, pool table, dartboard, purpose-built bar, wooden pub games and a well-stocked supply of pub snacks.

The name reflects the home’s location and local history. Kingswood takes its name from the Kings Wood, a large royal hunting forest that once surrounded Bristol, where the constable of Bristol Castle acted as the ranger and hunted stags. The home’s three floors are named Kings Meadow, Kings Forest and Kings Oak, so the Stags Head Inn fits neatly with the wider theme.

The project was led by Well-being Coordinator Shelley Reeson, with ideas and support from other team members in the home.

The pub gives residents the chance to keep enjoying the social experiences they value, without the barriers of travel, poor weather or ill health. Many residents have enjoyed visiting their local social club, but outings can be difficult. Bringing that atmosphere into the home promotes independence, choice, social connection and a sense of belonging.

The pub follows the successful opening of the home’s shop, Valley Treats, earlier this year, and is another step in building a thriving community at Avon Valley. Residents are already looking forward to pub quizzes and darts tournaments.

Rachael Bridgeman, Home Manager at Avon Valley, said, “Following the success of our shop, our new pub is another step in creating a thriving little community at Avon Valley, where residents can socialise, relax and make lasting memories. By bringing the social club experience into Avon Valley, we are creating opportunities for connection, enjoyment and meaningful moments right on our doorstep. Sometimes the best journeys are the ones that bring people together without having to leave home.”

Residents can’t wait to spend more time at The Stags Head Inn. Resident Jeanette Morrison said: “I am looking forward to somewhere different to go and socialise.” Resident Kath Scott added: “I can’t wait for a pub quiz.” Resident Margaret Spearing said: “Getting to know people better, the ones you don’t always see, and having a cheeky Thatchers.”

Joe Sims, who lives in Bristol, is no stranger to Avon Valley, having covered the home’s penguin and monkey story on his BBC Radio Bristol show last year. He is also appearing in this year’s pantomime at the Bristol Hippodrome alongside Craig Revel Horwood.

Joe said: “The Stags Head is the place to be, you even get a bag of scampi fries and a cheese roll”