The New Alice: 'Family pub' plan for Middlesbrough's former Devil’s Advocate

You may notice a new pub that’s opened its doors in Middlesbrough town centre.

Regular punters, on Borough Road, will have spotted that ‘The New Alice’ sign has been erected at the former The Devil’s Advocate bar. Stephen Beattie has taken over the reins at the venue with the aim to make it a “nice family pub”.

Speaking to Teesside Live, the businessman has told of the his plans for renovation, a “whirlwind” turnaround and excitement for a “new adventure”.

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Stephen, 43, has previous experience in pub management and bar work. “We just wanted a new adventure,” the Teesside man said. “It went up for sale and we thought we’d give it a go and turn it into a nice family pub to go to.”

He picked up the keys on Monday - and its been “a really quick turnaround” since. The doors opened after erecting The New Alice sign on Sunday, welcoming “excited” customers over the week. But punters will have to wait until after the summer to see what's in store for the new venue on the block.

However, The New Alice will make use of the "big beer garden" to the rear of the Borough Road venue during the summer months. Stephen is planning to complete a full renovation in September which will involve “digging it all out, floors and everything”. Speaking about the plan for the pub, he added: “It’s a new adventure for us and we can’t wait.

"We want it to be a proper family pub and we want all ages to come in.” The New Alice is open Monday to Thursday 3pm until 12pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm until 12am and Sunday 11am until 7pm. More information can be found on The New Alice’s Facebook page .