The Golden Bee: A Slice of British Pub Culture in Colorado Springs

The Golden Bee is more than just a restaurant; it's a portal to a bygone era of British pub culture, nestled within the luxurious Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. This isn't a themed imitation but an authentic 19th-century English pub, complete with fixtures, panels, and etched glass windows that were carefully transported from the UK and reassembled in 1961. Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule. The pub features hand-carved African mahogany, a pressed metal ceiling, and gaslight fixtures that evoke the ambiance of a traditional English tavern. Some of the armchairs even hail from an old British schooner, adding to the historical charm. The walls are adorned with English prints, and the etched glass on the doors was reproduced from historical depictions of pre-war English pubs. The Golden Bee offers a hearty gastropub menu featuring British classics and American favorites. Guests can enjoy traditional dishes such as fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and sticky toffee pudding, alongside a wide selection of beers and ales, many served in traditional glass 'yards'. Live piano music and sing-alongs create a lively and convivial atmosphere, encouraging patrons to raise their glasses and join in the fun. A unique tradition involves servers throwing small, fuzzy 'bees' at guests, which, if caught, can be kept as souvenirs. The pub's history is as intriguing as its atmosphere. Originally built in London in the 1880s, the pub's fixtures were later moved to New York City before being discovered in a warehouse by the Broadmoor's interior design firm. The Broadmoor purchased the dismantled pub for $20,000 to publicize their ale in the United States. Today, The Golden Bee stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of British pub culture and a unique dining and entertainment destination in Colorado Springs.