Surrey's thriving hospitality sector: six nations, career opportunities, and leisure spots

Thursday, January 23, 2025

As the Guinness Six Nations rugby competition approaches, Surrey people are preparing to cheer on their sides. The tournament's next installment begins on January 31 with France facing Wales at the Stade de France, followed by Scotland vs. Italy at Murrayfield on February 1. England's campaign will begin on February 1 against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The competition will conclude with the showdown on March 15.

Key Takeaways

Surrey is gearing up for the Six Nations rugby tournament, with its thriving hospitality sector offering a range of career opportunities and leisure spots.

  • Top pubs in Surrey include The Weyside in Guildford, The Bear in Cobham, Scott's Richmond, The Junction Tap in Woking, Home Cottage in Redhill, and The Princess Royal in Farnham, each providing a unique atmosphere for watching the Six Nations.
  • The demand for hospitality jobs in Surrey is expected to rise due to the tournament, with 82% of working-age residents employed and a robust labor force available to meet the growing demand.
  • Career opportunities abound in Surrey's hospitality sector, with higher median annual pay and a greater number of people in professional and administrative positions, making it an attractive destination for those looking for work in the industry.

Top pubs for watching the Six Nations in Surrey

The Weyside in Guildford is ideal for those wishing to watch the Six Nations on a calm riverfront, with excellent food and a terrific atmosphere for parties. The Bear in Cobham, a 16th-century country tavern, is ideal for soaking up the Six Nations spirit while attracting large audiences. Scott's Richmond will heighten the ante with a pre-Six Nations dinner on February 4th, including rugby luminaries Jamie Roberts, Danny Care, and Ugo Monye.

The Junction Tap in Woking has large screens and a lively environment, broadcasting every match and serving sharing platters such as a kilogram of chicken wings. Home Cottage in Redhill has a welcoming beer garden, and The Princess Royal in Farnham is a dog-friendly pub with hotel vacancies.

Rising demand for hospitality jobs in Surrey

The enthusiasm around events like the Six Nations Rugby Championship may lead to an increase in the demand for restaurant and pub services in Surrey. Both locals and visitors are driving this growth in footfall, which could create additional jobs in the hospitality sector.

According to the Surrey workforce statistics, 82% of Surrey residents of working age were in employment during the period from April 2023 to March 2024, indicating a robust labor force to fulfill the growing demand.

At venues that require qualified personnel to handle larger crowds during Six Nations games, Surrey residents are also more likely to have professional or managerial positions. The greater employment rate and the availability of experienced workers in the area could help the hospitality venues adapt more quickly to the influx of rugby fans.

Career opportunities during the Six Nations

The Six Nations Championship not only promises thrilling rugby action, but it also presents a potential for Surrey's hospitality sector to expand.

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As clubs and pubs prepare for heavier custom, staffing requirements are sure to rise. With Surrey's projected median annual pay for full-time workers at £42,882 in 2023, which is much higher than the national average, those looking for work in the hospitality industry may find more appealing career prospects.

Furthermore, Surrey's higher number of people in professional and administrative positions means that rugby fans may expect better service and more experienced employees at local sites. The Six Nations could stimulate expansion in the hotel industry, resulting in job possibilities for both locals and visitors. Whilst the data were last updated five months ago, it still demonstrates the region's economic strength.

Conclusion

Surrey is the ideal location to watch the Six Nations rugby championship, with wonderful pubs providing a lively atmosphere for spectators. Whether you're watching France v Wales on 31 January at the Stade de France, Scotland v Italy on 1 February at Murrayfield, or England's first match against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, these pubs are the ideal place to cheer on your team.

As Surrey's hospitality and tourism industries grow, there are several career options available in UK hospitality and leisure employment, including various roles in visitor attractions and associated areas. The expanding demand in Surrey's hospitality sector matches the overall trend of increasing opportunities in UK tourism, making it an ideal time to explore the area's offerings.