The team reopening a former Wetherspoons in the heart of the county town have revealed when its doors will open.
After nine years of closure, the former Sir Isaac Pitman on Trowbridge’s Market Street, will reopen under new management on July 17.
The site has undergone a transformation and will reopen as The Birdhouse, a new social space designed for daytime comfort and night-time vibrancy.
The new venue will be operated by Birdhouse Wiltshire Ltd, led by directors Sam Dean, Claire Grist, and Chloe Grist.
Together, the trio bring a blend of hospitality expertise, music pedigree, and creative direction.
Sam Dean, former operator of The Boathouse in Bradford on Avon and sole director of SD Hospitality Management Ltd brings years of experience from across the industry, both in the UK and in Europe, including The George and Pilgrim in Glastonbury.
Having recently moved to the area, Sam, originally from Derby, identified a gap in the market for a mixed‑use venue that blends social connection, live entertainment and accessible food and drink.
Claire Grist, a lifelong musician and vocalist, and winner of Stairway to the Stars 1996, has spent years performing and recording across the UK — including sharing a stage with Joe Jonas.
Claire, from Bridport in Dorset, is also the driving force behind Bird is The Word, a respected local music entity known for championing local bands and original artists over diverse genres.
Full access to all of our articles online and on the app, fewer adverts, a better reading experience, exclusive competitions and more - all for less than the price of a cup of coffee. ☕️Subscribe now! - https://t.co/t7A1ayW7mR pic.twitter.com/Dk1fvaFm1K
— Wiltshire Times (@wiltshiretimes) April 13, 2026
She also assists venues with live music bookings and provides online promotion for artists across Wiltshire.
Chloe Grist, meanwhile, brings experience in design, branding and social media.
Devizes born and bred, Chloe is half of the dynamic Trowbridge duo Cracking Pair and performs as DJ Blue T alongside wife Claire the couple co‑host karaoke, bespoke quizzes and more live entertainment.
Together, Sam, Claire and Chloe have reimagined the long‑vacant building as a welcoming, venue built around togetherness and entertainment.
The Birdhouse will offer local, sharable and affordable food and drink; live music every weekend, curated through Bird is The Word expertise; a jukebox, pool table and relaxed social spaces; “The Nest” — a cosy corner where visitors can listen to curated Vinyl, CDs and cassettes; and a venue designed to be a home for Trowbridge.
The Birdhouse aims to breathe new life into the centre of town, offering a space where friends, families and neighbours can gather, connect and enjoy great music.
The Birdhouse opens to the public July 17, with full details of launch event details to be announced shortly.
Share