The Ruddy Duck pub in Wakefield, England was previously known as the Ruddy Duck Wakefield before undergoing a name change in recent years. This traditional English pub has a long history in Wakefield, but opted for a shorter and simpler name to make it easier for patrons to remember and locate the venue.
History of the Ruddy Duck Wakefield
The pub originally opened in the 19th century under the name The Blue Duck. Back then, it was located along the banks of the River Calder and mainly served as a rest stop for workers along the waterway. In the early 1900s, the original structure was demolished and rebuilt into a larger establishment.
It was at this time that the owners decided to rename the pub to the Ruddy Duck, likely after the small chestnut-colored duck species native to North America. The naming choice was meant to pay homage to Wakefield’s history as a center of the UK wool trade. Ruddy duck feathers were sometimes used in wool manufacturing.
As the city of Wakefield continued to expand throughout the 1900s, the Ruddy Duck established itself as a staple community venue. Several decades later, the pub’s ownership opted to append the city’s name, rebranding as the Ruddy Duck Wakefield in the late 1970s. This helped associate the location with the local area and make it stand out from any other Ruddy Duck pubs across England.
The Name Change
After decades of operating as the Ruddy Duck Wakefield, the pub owners decided in 2012 to shorten the name back to simply the Ruddy Duck. The reason for this change came down to convenience and brand recognition.
The longer name made it tricky for new customers to remember the pub or even realize it was the Ruddy Duck if they had heard of the place by reputation. The owners wanted a name that rolled off the tongue more easily so patrons could refer to the venue quickly and recount their experiences to friends.
Removing the city association also allowed the pub to build a unique identity not tied solely to Wakefield. While still proud of its long history in the city, the Ruddy Duck hoped to attract a customer base across the whole region and establish itself as a destination gastropub.
Customer Reactions
Regulars who had known the pub as the Ruddy Duck Wakefield for years took some time to adjust to the shorter name after the 2012 change. However, most understood the reason for the tweak and grew accustomed to calling it the Ruddy Duck after a few months.
New customers that visited the pub after the name change did not know the previous title, so only knew the venue as the Ruddy Duck. This helped build strong brand recognition for the new name and identity.
Impact on Business
While hard to quantify directly, the name change does seem to have benefited the Ruddy Duck’s business. The shorter name spread by word of mouth more quickly thanks to its memorability. Many new patrons said they specifically sought out the pub after hearing the Ruddy Duck name mentioned by friends.
The pub’s new ability to attract customers from a wider area beyond just Wakefield has been a boon as well. The Ruddy Duck has seen its customer base and sales revenue grow steadily since shortening its name to be more catchy and inclusive.
The Pub Today
Over ten years since the name change, the Ruddy Duck continues to thrive in Wakefield as a popular local gastropub. Its menu serves seasonal European fare alongside a frequently rotating selection of local beers and ales. Special event nights, live music performances, and an outdoor patio area in summer months help make the pub a lively community fixture.
While no longer carrying the Wakefield association in its name, the Ruddy Duck still proudly celebrates its history in the city. Long-running exhibits of historic photos and memorabilia educate new patrons on the pub’s legacy and connection to Wakefield.
Regular Customer Base
Many regulars have been frequenting the Ruddy Duck for years, through both its former Ruddy Duck Wakefield days and after the name change. Groups of friends and coworkers often make recurring visits to catch up and wind down over drinks multiple times per month.
Visitors
Out-of-town visitors passing through Wakefield will often stop in for a meal and drinks at the Ruddy Duck as well. Its warm, lively atmosphere and locally-focused fare make it a great place to get a taste of the city. Tourists appreciate the ability to soak in some of Wakefield’s ambiance without the noise or crowds of a crowded city center pub.
Event Space
With a variety of dining areas and event spaces, the Ruddy Duck also hosts special occasions like birthday gatherings, professional mixers, and even small weddings. Groups appreciate the flexible room options and full-service bar and catering menu.
Conclusion
Though no longer sporting the official Wakefield association in its name, the Ruddy Duck remains a beloved establishment in the city’s social scene. The pub has benefited from the shorter, more catchy rebranding to the Ruddy Duck by building wider name recognition. While staying true to its local roots, the venue now attracts patrons from across the region and remains a lively neighborhood staple.