Wetherspoon to Open First Ever Pub with Indoor Golf Course in Great Dunmow

The Flitch of Bacon, Great Dunmow | Source: JD Wetherspoon

‘The Flitch of Bacon’ celebrates town’s rich history with a unique new twist

JD Wetherspoon is set to tee up a brand-new chapter in its pub story, announcing the opening of The Flitch of Bacon in the heart of Great Dunmow on 1st April 2026.

Located at the former Barclays Bank on the High Street, which closed in August 2022, the new venue not only breathes fresh life into the building but also pays tribute to the town’s fascinating heritage. The pub’s name is a nod to the Flitch Trials, a tradition dating back to 1104, where married couples who could prove a year and a day of harmony were awarded a side of bacon.

But that’s not all – The Flitch of Bacon will go down in history as the first Wetherspoon pub to feature an indoor mini golf course.

The bespoke 9-hole course, designed to delight locals and visitors alike, was brought to life in partnership with Essex-based travel experts, Hashtag Travel Group.

“We’re thrilled to have played a part in designing something so fun and unexpected,” said Neil Bird, Director of Hashtag Travel Group. “It’s not every day you get to help putt a golf course inside a pub – and in our hometown too! We hope it brings lots of joy to locals and becomes a memorable part of their Wetherspoons experience.”

To celebrate the grand opening, Wetherspoon founder and golf enthusiast Sir Tim Martin will be stepping up as the first person to tee off on the indoor course.

“Great Dunmow felt like the perfect place to break new ground,” said Sir Tim. “The town’s sense of community, love of tradition and quirky character made it an easy choice. We believe The Flitch of Bacon will become a local landmark – with great food, drinks, and now a bit of golf too!”

The pub will also host a calendar of regular events, including the brilliantly bonkers Bingo Karaoke Night every Tuesday, promising an unmissable mix of tunes, trivia and prizes.

The Flitch of Bacon promises to blend the best of Wetherspoon’s signature value and atmosphere with something entirely new. From family outings and golf challenges to quiet pints and community events, it’s set to become Great Dunmow’s newest social hub.