For decades, the Costa Blanca has proudly marketed itself as a slice of authentic Mediterranean life: sun, seafood, late-night tapas, and ice-cold cañas served on terracotta terraces.
From late January 2026, however, holidaymakers passing through Alicante–Elche Miguel Hernández Airport will encounter something rather different: a branch of JD Wetherspoon, the unmistakably British pub chain, opening under a sign reading Castell de Santa Bàrbera.
A slice of Britain at Alicante airport
The new airport offering will serve full English breakfasts, burgers, and pints from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., and will reportedly also feature Spanish touches such as garlic prawns and Spanish tortilla.
The pub appears to be named after Castillo de Santa Bárbara, which perches above the city of Alicante. In a nod to the local surroundings, it is reported that Spanish tiles will replace Wetherspoon’s usual decor and patterned carpets.
Wetherspoon boss Tim Martin says the airport launch has been “a long-time goal”. Alicante makes strategic sense: it is a hub for British holidaymakers, giving the chain access to travellers who may want a familiar pint or a hearty breakfast before boarding. Martin has hinted this could be just the start of a European expansion, with other Spanish destinations such as Mallorca and Benidorm reportedly on the radar.
Nostalgia, consistency and convenience
In the UK, Wetherspoons is known for its affordable menu, generous portions, and a reliably casual pub atmosphere. For British travellers, the airport branch could offer a nostalgic taste of home: a great British dish or a familiar drink in a space that feels predictable and comfortable.
Spain’s rich culinary culture
At the same time, Spain already offers a wealth of authentic bars, tapas spots, and cafes where locals and visitors enjoy traditional flavours at very affordable prices. The Costa Blanca’s culinary culture is rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in local life, from fresh seafood to chilled local beers.
So where does Castell de Santa Bàrbera sit? Is its Spanish-sounding name meant to position it as an authentic Spanish experience, or is that surface-level marketing hiding a truly British offering?
The timing and irony
What’s interesting is that this opening is not just a novelty. It is part of what Wetherspoon calls a broader overseas expansion strategy, especially targeting airports. From a business perspective, it makes sense: high footfall, a captive audience, and a niche they know how to exploit.
There is an ironic twist in that. The man who once emblazoned “Brexit means cheaper pints” on beer mats is now relying on EU freedom of movement for goods, staff, and customers to make his continental dream viable. Although post-Brexit regulations slowed UK growth, securing a profitable airport concession in Spain appears relatively smooth.
Do we need Wetherspoons in Spain?
The Costa Blanca region, served by Alicante Airport, has built a well-deserved reputation for its authentic Spanish charm. Travellers flock there for sun-drenched towns, tapas bars tucked down narrow alleys, and traditional cuisine that feels rooted in place. Its culinary identity is firmly Spanish.
So it’s fair to ask whether we really need a Wetherspoons here. On the other hand, there is a practical argument. Alicante Airport sees a huge volume of British tourists. According to Wetherspoon’s own data, one-third of passengers passing through the airport are British. For many of those travellers, especially on their way home, ’Spoons might feel like a comforting, familiar stop before boarding. The combination of British staples with a few Spanish dishes could bridge a gap.
Perhaps the question is not whether Spain needs a Wetherspoons, but whether Wetherspoons needs Spain. The chain has spotted a market and is betting on it. Whether it becomes a permanent fixture or remains a curious airport stop is yet to be seen, and will travellers choose British classics over tapas? Only time will tell.