Home » EUROPE » Wells & Co Marks 30 Years of Crafting British Pub Memories Across France: What This Means for Travellers
Published on
October 7, 2025
Wells & Co celebrates 30 years as UK pub pioneers in their French hospitality business. The milestone comes decades after they first opened the Bombardier pub in 1995 at Paris. Now with 19 pubs in cities like Bordeaux, Toulouse, Montpellier, and Strasbourg, Wells & Co is a French favourite for both locals and tourists. Moreover, this place company has become a beloved fixture for both the French and the British expats. With offering and extend their hospitality and service, this perfectly place capture the British warmth and French bistro hospitality giving an all new heart and warmth.
The Bombardier: A British Pub in the Heart of Paris
In 1995, The Bombardier opened its doors on the picturesque Place du Panthéon in Paris, offering a British pub atmosphere that felt like a home away from home for Parisians and expats alike. This was more than just a place to grab a pint; it became a cultural hub where patrons could enjoy British classics like ale, Sunday roasts, and pub quizzes. Its success proved that the love for a good pint transcended borders, sparking the start of Wells & Co’s French journey.
Wells & Co: From a Single Pub to a National Presence
Wells & Co’s expansion in France was driven by a simple idea: to bring the British pub experience to a new audience. After the success of The Bombardier, the company went on to open more pubs in major French cities. Today, the company operates 19 locations, with each pub offering a lively atmosphere, traditional British ales from Bedford, and a variety of cultural events. These pubs are particularly popular among locals who appreciate the unique blend of British charm and French joie de vivre.
Popular Wells & Co Locations for Tourists:
- Paris: The original The Bombardier near the Pantheon is a must-visit for those looking to experience a lively British pub in the French capital.
- Bordeaux: Known for its picturesque streets and exceptional wine, Bordeaux also boasts a vibrant Wells & Co pub offering a taste of British brewing.
- Toulouse: In the heart of the southwest, this location captures the laid-back vibe of the city with classic British ales and hearty meals.
- Montpellier: A thriving student town, this pub provides the perfect atmosphere for locals and travelers to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Strasbourg: For those exploring this stunning city on the Franco-German border, a Wells & Co pub provides a familiar atmosphere and comforting English-style food.
- Lyon and Marseille: Wells & Co has also established a presence in these bustling cities, offering travelers a chance to enjoy traditional British fare in vibrant French locales.
What Makes Wells & Co Special for Tourists?
Wells & Co’s pubs offer more than just food and drink; they provide a social space where travelers can feel at home. Whether you’re visiting Paris for a few days or exploring the charming streets of Bordeaux, Wells & Co pubs offer a familiar and welcoming environment. British tourists and locals alike appreciate the warm service, traditional pub fare like fish and chips, and events that make the experience even more memorable.
For those missing the classic British pub atmosphere while abroad, these locations are a welcome retreat. Tourists can expect friendly bar staff, live music, pub quizzes, and a fantastic selection of British ales, all brewed at Wells & Co’s Brewpoint Brewery in Bedford. The brewery, established in 2020, ensures that every pint served in France has the same high quality as it would in the UK.
A Commitment to Authenticity and Quality
At the heart of Wells & Co’s success in France is its commitment to authenticity. The company has never wavered in its dedication to offering a true British pub experience, from the carefully curated drink list to the famous Sunday roasts. Every beer served is brewed at the state-of-the-art Brewpoint Brewery, which opened in 2020. This attention to detail ensures that customers always enjoy the authentic taste of Bedford-brewed ales, no matter where they are in France.
The Wells & Co Experience: More Than Just Pubs
Wells & Co’s commitment to creating a home-from-home experience for tourists and locals alike is reflected in its vibrant calendar of events. Each pub has a packed schedule of live music, quiz nights, and themed events that bring the community together. These events are especially appealing to travelers who want to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the warmth of a British pub. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’re a regular, there’s always something happening at Wells & Co.
Looking to the Future
As Wells & Co celebrates its 30th anniversary in France, the company is looking to the future with excitement. Plans are in place to further expand its French estate, offering new experiences for customers while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that has made the brand a success. For tourists, this means even more opportunities to experience the magic of a British pub while exploring some of France’s most vibrant cities.
A British Pub Experience You Can’t Miss
Wells & Co.’s thirty years in France demonstrates that a great British pub can prosper anywhere around the world. Wherever you go, be it Paris, Bordeaux, or Toulouse, there is a Wells & Co pub providing the ideal combination of British hospitality and French charm. With tasty ales, filling meals, and a schedule full of entertaining activities, these pubs give visitors a very memorable experience. If you are a tourist in need of ease, company, and a classic British pub experience in France, you can always depend on Wells & Co.
