Beyond the Barrel
Ever wondered what it’ s like to run a pub in 2026? We spoke to Christine Lowe, the manager of this issue’ s cover pub, The Change of Horses to find out what it takes to keep the pub running smoothly.
I think it’ s the first community pub I’ ve ever worked in. All the rest have been much bigger company run ones where there are no personal touches, but this has personality.
How did you become the manager?
I fell into the position. The manager left and I was helping out more and more, and then eventually the owners were like:“ Are we finally settling on that you’ re the manager then?” and I just said,“ Yeah I suppose I am.”
What do you love most about working in a pub?
Community. We have a lot of lovely regulars, and I am a very chatty person, so I just like the feeling it gives me. It brings me joy.
“ Community... it brings me joy.”
What about the Change of Horses specifically?
Jay and Gary, the owners, listen to what I say. Any ideas I have, they pretty much give me the go ahead. I suppose it’ s staff as well, certain staff make you want to stay. Out of the many pubs I’ ve worked at, this one is by far my favourite.
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What’ s the most important thing you’ ve learnt from being a pub manager?
You’ ve got to be patient with everyone. Customers, staff, even people who come out to fix stuff, you need so much patience. It will drive you mad otherwise.
What’ s the most challenging part of managing a pub?
The main thing is hitting targets. It can be very difficult due to the cost of living. I’ m constantly trying to think of new, inventive ideas to try and get people in the door. It’ s challenging and frustrating, but you can’ t please everyone.
What’ s the weirdest drink order you’ ve ever made?
Red wine and coke, a red wine spritzer. My sister drinks it, I find it weird, but everyone has different tastes I suppose.