In 2022, Wetherspoon took over Hull University’s Sanctuary bar. Having a taste of the student market, Wetherspoons partnered with Newcastle to take over operations at Luther’s last September, creating around 40 jobs, promising value and introducing catering to the bar.
So, what’s the problem? Most obviously, some people take issue with the bar becoming a chain, least of all a Spoons; whether it’s Tim Martin or the oversaturation of his pubs in the city centre, it’s inarguable that the brand itself is controversial - the low prices are too good to be true.
Having the Five Swans a five-minute walk away does make the whole premise of a campus Spoons feel unnecessary, but there are also plenty of other pubs nearby that students will take their business to, like the Hancock and Trent House, rather than going to a Wetherspoons. There are also plenty of non-students who stumble upon Luther’s because it’s a Spoons, and on maps, it doesn’t look anything like an SU bar.
Perhaps if the bar on campus felt more distinctive and personal, students would feel at home there. One Google Review states that Luther's “lacked any atmosphere” during his visit: “If you want a proper Spoons hit any of them in the city centre”. This is self-evident - even when busy, Luther’s seems, somehow, dead. Back before Luther’s was a Spoons (even when it was Mensbar), it had dart boards, and a “relaxed”, “cosy atmosphere” according to other reviewers.
There is also a noticeable lack of other provisions in the SU, however, and it’s great to have Luther’s on campus during the day. A lot of students eat there between lectures, getting a cheap and hot meal, and the benefit of Spoons is certainly felt then. On the other hand, on an evening, the only option on campus being a Spoons feels like a let-down. When our SU is comprised of a Domino’s that’s closed by 6, lunchtime hours only restaurants and a Co-Op, it’s hardly a hotspot for nightlife. Newcastle students seem to miss out on not only the SU bar experience but the entire experience of the SU as a social hub.
Ultimately, whether you love or hate Spoons, there are benefits to having one on campus. However, since it’s students’ only option, it does feel like the SU bar experience is lost in favour of value and convenience.
