Pesto Restaurants to Revive Historic Walton Arms Pub in Warrington with New Italian Dining Experience
WARRINGTON, CHESHIRE – A cherished local landmark is set to begin an exciting new chapter. The historic Walton Arms pub, a fixture in the Warrington community for more than 140 years, is being transformed into a stylish Italian restaurant by Pesto Restaurants. The company, renowned for its signature Italian small plates known as piattini, has secured approval to refurbish the pub, with a grand reopening scheduled for September 2025.
This new venture marks Pesto’s 12th restaurant and its third in Cheshire, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to expanding its footprint across the North West while celebrating the architectural and cultural heritage of the region.
Honouring the Past, Building the Future
The Walton Arms, originally constructed around 1800 and later rebuilt in 1875, holds significant historical value. Once a stop for horse-drawn buses, it has long served as a social hub for locals. Recognising the building’s historical importance, Pesto Restaurants plans to sensitively restore the pub while introducing modern Italian flair to the interiors and menu.
Sara Gatt, co-founder of Pesto Restaurants, shared her enthusiasm for the project:
“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 fresh and exciting for locals and visitors alike.”
Renovation efforts will carefully preserve standout architectural features such as the tall chimneys, stone mullioned windows, and mock Tudor-style façade. These historic elements will be thoughtfully integrated into Pesto’s modern design vision, ensuring the venue retains its charm while adapting to new culinary demands.
A Taste of Italy in the Heart of Warrington
Pesto’s concept revolves around piattini—small plates that encourage sharing and social dining, drawing inspiration from traditional Italian hospitality. Their menu includes a broad selection of dishes, from bruschetta and calamari to risottos and pasta, designed for both leisurely lunches and lively group dinners.
The new Walton Arms location aims to provide a relaxed yet elegant environment. The interior will feature warm tones, rustic touches, and Italian-inspired décor that complements the pub’s historic setting. Outside, guests can look forward to a landscaped terrace area, perfect for alfresco dining during the warmer months.
As Warrington’s culinary scene continues to grow, the addition of Pesto is expected to attract a mix of locals and visitors seeking high-quality food in a unique setting. The town’s location between Liverpool and Manchester, along with strong transport links and a burgeoning population, make it a prime spot for culinary investment.
Supporting Local Heritage and Community
The transformation of the Walton Arms aligns with broader efforts to revitalise Warrington’s historic buildings while boosting the local economy. According to Warrington Borough Council, such adaptive reuse of heritage properties not only preserves local history but also supports tourism and job creation.
Pesto has a strong track record of transforming historic venues across the UK into vibrant dining destinations. The company’s approach places equal importance on architectural integrity and customer experience. Their venues are typically family-friendly and cater to a variety of dietary needs, ensuring a broad appeal.
Co-founder Sara Gatt emphasised the importance of maintaining community spirit:
“We want the new Pesto at The Walton Arms to feel like a continuation of the pub’s legacy—a place where people gather to share stories, meals, and memories.”
Anticipation Builds Ahead of September Opening
As the September 2025 opening draws closer, anticipation is growing among residents eager to see the transformation unfold. Local businesses and tourism stakeholders are also optimistic about the positive impact the new Pesto restaurant will have on the area.
With an experienced team at the helm and a clear vision that blends authenticity with innovation, Pesto’s arrival at The Walton Arms is poised to become a standout moment in Warrington’s culinary evolution. The restaurant is expected to draw attention from regional food critics and tourists alike, serving as a beacon for quality Italian cuisine in a historical English setting.
Tourism and Hospitality Impact
According to Visit Cheshire, Warrington is one of the fastest-growing economic regions in the North West, with tourism contributing significantly to local revenue. New hospitality ventures like Pesto at The Walton Arms play a key role in enhancing the visitor experience, particularly for those interested in food tourism, heritage trails, and weekend getaways.
The revitalisation of The Walton Arms is a prime example of how private investment can support the adaptive reuse of heritage properties, ensuring they remain relevant and accessible to future generations.
Conclusion
By restoring a beloved Warrington landmark and introducing its signature Italian hospitality, Pesto Restaurants is delivering more than just great food—it’s offering a renewed sense of place and purpose. As the Walton Arms reopens under new stewardship, locals and tourists alike will find a welcoming space where heritage and cuisine beautifully collide.
Stay tuned for opening updates, reservation details, and menu previews as the September launch approaches.
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