There’s a new face behind the bar at one of Huddersfield’s most cherished football pubs, and he’s already making his mark. John Wilkins, 57, has taken over The Peacock on Leeds Road, a stone’s throw from the Accu Stadium, and he’s determined to keep the pints flowing and the community spirit alive—even as Britain’s pub trade faces tough times. For Wilkins, the transition from customer to landlord has been swift, but he’s no stranger to the place or its people. After all, for years he was just another regular, sharing laughs and drinks with locals from Leeds Road, Bradley, Dalton, Quarmby, and beyond.
The Peacock is more than just a pub—it’s a hub for Huddersfield Town and Huddersfield Giants fans, especially on match days. The walls are decked with football memorabilia, and the air crackles with anticipation whenever the teams play. On those special Saturdays, the pub is often packed with over 100 Town fans, many spilling out into the beer garden at the back. According to YorkshireLive, it’s probably the second closest pub to the Accu Stadium, making it a natural gathering spot for fans looking for a pre- or post-game pint.
Wilkins stepped into the role after Faber Egan, the previous landlady, retired in September 2025 following an impressive three decades at the helm. "I have big shoes to fill," Wilkins admitted, acknowledging the legacy left by Egan. He’s not shying away from the challenge, though. In fact, he’s already lowered prices on some drinks to help regulars and matchday crowds alike. "We have already made a few price changes, with prices of drinks down. The cheapest pint is £3.40 for a pint of John Smith’s," Wilkins told YorkshireLive. It’s a move designed to keep the pub accessible, especially as the cost of living continues to pinch wallets across the UK.
But it’s not just about cheaper drinks. Wilkins is eyeing a series of changes to bring new life—and new faces—to The Peacock. As winter approaches, he wants to make better use of the kitchen, offering hot food to warm up chilly fans and locals alike. The function room, too, is opening up for bookings, promising a space for everything from family gatherings to club meetings. As reported by SportCDNS, Wilkins sees these changes as a way to keep the pub thriving, even as many in the industry struggle to stay afloat.
For Wilkins, running The Peacock is a far cry from his previous job as a bus driver—a role he left behind with few regrets. He recalls the daily grind with more than a hint of relief. "On the 7.20am Bradford bus, 18 people got on—one person acknowledged me," he said, describing passengers as "rude and ignorant." The lack of connection on the buses left him cold, but at The Peacock, it’s the exact opposite. "This is a customers’ pub," Wilkins declared. "I like a laugh and a joke with people." He’s keen to keep the atmosphere welcoming and lively, whether it’s a quiet weekday afternoon or a raucous matchday evening.
The Peacock isn’t just for football fans, either. It’s a true community pub, drawing in pool players, karaoke enthusiasts (with Sunday sessions proving particularly popular), and locals looking for a place to unwind. During the week, it’s a spot where people from all walks of life gather for a pint and a chat. On weekends, especially when Huddersfield Town or the Giants are playing, it transforms into a buzzing hive of sports passion. As SportCDNS put it, "On game days, over 100 Town fans fill the place, spilling into the beer garden with pints in hand and passion in their voices. It’s chaos at its best, the kind of place that feels like home."
Wilkins’s journey from bus driver to publican might seem surprising, but for those who know him—and for the regulars at The Peacock—it’s a perfect fit. He understands the importance of community, and he’s eager to welcome both loyal patrons and newcomers. "We are a short walk from the stadium—come and give us a try," he urged, highlighting the pub’s proximity to the action and its inviting beer garden. The hope is that affordable prices, a friendly vibe, and some hearty hot food will keep both old and new customers coming back, no matter the weather or the score on the pitch.
Of course, taking over a pub in 2025 isn’t without its challenges. The UK’s hospitality sector has been battered by rising costs, changing drinking habits, and the lingering aftershocks of the pandemic. Many pubs have closed their doors for good, unable to weather the storm. But Wilkins is optimistic. He’s banking on the pub’s deep roots in the local community—and its magnetic pull on match days—to see it through. "We have a secluded beer garden with plenty of tables to sit and chat," he said, painting a picture of a place where friendships are made, and memories are forged.
As Wilkins settles into his new role, he’s keenly aware of the pub’s legacy and the expectations that come with it. The Peacock has been a fixture on Leeds Road for generations, serving as a backdrop to countless celebrations, commiserations, and everything in between. Wilkins’s stewardship marks a new chapter, one that blends respect for tradition with a willingness to adapt and innovate. Whether it’s karaoke on Sundays, pool tournaments, or simply a well-poured pint after a long day, he wants The Peacock to remain at the heart of Huddersfield’s social scene.
So, will Wilkins’s vision for The Peacock pay off? Only time—and a few more match days—will tell. For now, though, the pub is buzzing, the pints are flowing, and the laughter is genuine. It’s the kind of place where everyone’s welcome, whether you’re a die-hard Town fan, a Giants supporter, or just looking for a friendly spot to raise a glass. As the winter nights draw in and the football season heats up, The Peacock stands ready to welcome all comers—one pint, one laugh, and one match at a time.