Wykeham Arms supports with Refill Scheme

We’re excited to share a brilliant new initiative from The Wykeham Arms, one of our fantastic Corporate Members, that supports Play to the Crowd while helping the planet. 

The much-loved Kingsgate Street pub has launched an eco-friendly filtered water scheme that gives customers the option of chilled still or sparkling water in refillable bottles – helping to cut down on waste and support local good causes at the same time. 

Every refill helps support local arts and heritage 

In exchange for a small optional donation of £1, customers can enjoy chilled filtered water without using single-use plastic or glass. Proceeds from the donations will alternate between three local charities: Play to the Crowd, Winchester Cathedral, and Hampshire Heritage Trust. This thoughtful scheme reflects The Wykeham Arms’ commitment to sustainability and the local community. 

Every donation between March and September 2025 will go directly to Play to the Crowd, keeping culture and creativity alive in Winchester through Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and our community outreach work. 

A partnership with purpose 

Our relationship with The Wykeham Arms goes back to 2023, when they started supporting us through sales of their famous Wyk Pie, donating 25p from each one sold. That campaign wrapped up in November 2024 – raising over £2,000 – and we’re thrilled they’ve chosen to continue backing us in this new, eco-conscious way. 

Here’s what Becca Moore, our Fundraising Manager, had to say: 

“We’re so pleased to be part of this brilliant initiative. It’s a simple idea with a big impact – better for the planet and a real boost for local charities like ours. Huge thanks to the team at The Wykeham Arms for continuing to back our work in such a thoughtful and practical way.” 

And from Jon Howard, Licensee of The Wykeham Arms: 

“We are delighted to continue our support for Play to the Crowd and the work that they do through this new initiative. For us, every bottle refill represents both a small step toward preserving our planet and a tangible contribution to preserving our community's culture and history. We’re proud to offer an eco-conscious alternative that also supports the heart of Winchester.” 

Local Businesses Supporting Local Culture 

We're proud to be building a growing network of local business champions who are helping us raise funds in simple, everyday ways. 

Whether it’s through product donations, optional add-ons or customer referrals, these partnerships are making a real difference to our work. 

Here are the other brilliant businesses backing us: 

• Winchester Royal Hotel – donating 25p from every afternoon tea sold 

• Norton Park Hotel, Sutton Scotney – giving £1 from every Royal Rose cocktail 

• Howden Insurance, Jewry Street – donating £25 for every policy bought or renewed when customers quote 'Play to the Crowd' 

• TMC Financial Consultancy – pledging a share of fees for every new client who quotes 'Play to the Crowd' 

Together, these small actions add up to big impact – helping us bring more creativity, joy and connection to people across our community. 

Want to get involved? 

We're always keen to team up with local businesses that share our values and want to support the arts in Winchester. 

If your business – or one you know – would like to work with us, we’d love to hear from you. 

Get in touch with Becca Moore, Fundraising Manager, on becca@playtothecrowd.co.uk or call 01962 673 746.