A well-established pub has taken over the old space that used to be occupied by the Jameson Tavern, bringing back a community space to Freeport.

The King’s Head Pub has opened in the spot after the success of its two locations, one in South Portland and a sister business called The Queen’s Head Pub in Bridgton, said Justin O’Connor, owner of the King’s Head Pub. O’Connor opened the first location, called The King’s Head, in Portland in 2014, which he describes as a locals’ pub. The Queen’s Head Pub opened in 2023.

The building for the King’s Head Pub, located at 115 Main St. in Freeport, had not been updated when O’Connor took it over. New plumbing and electrical work were incorporated into the building throughout 2025, enhancing the interior to resemble its other locations.

O’Connor said he did not use the town’s Fit Up Grant program and instead used his own resources to make the changes and updates.

“I love Freeport, and the building is so rich with character and history that it was hard to say no to,” O’Connor said.

O’Connor recognized the need for a community pub where residents and visitors could gather with other people they know. The King’s Head Pub has been open for more than two weeks.

The Jameson Tavern closed the previous year, serving a need for a traditional tavern.

Old buildings with character are what attract O’Connor to potential commercial spaces, such as the first King’s Head Pub, located in what used to be the old Cumberland cold storage facility — a brick building built in the 1800s.

“It’s another attractive place for both locals and visitors from away to enjoy while also shopping and the outdoor environment,” said Hallowell resident Chris Waters, who was visiting the King’s Head Pub for the first time.

Waters liked what was on the menu for both wine and cocktails, saying there was a lot for everyone.

Freeport resident Morgan Hodgman and Saco resident Sara Rosario were impressed by the food and were glad to see another pub open in town. Hodgman said the choices for pub food were lacking in Freeport, and the King’s Head Pub fills a need for pub-style food. She noticed some similarities in menu items between the King’s Head Pub and the Jameson Tavern.

The menu for the King’s Head Pub’s Freeport location is more seafood-focused, with much of the food made from scratch.

“A really good pub can be the lifeblood of the town,” O’Connor said.

Genuine hospitality is about employees caring about the food and service that the customer experiences, O’Connor said.

“Our staff is exceptional,” he said. “The reason that we are successful is that we have unbelievable people working for us.”

The King’s Head Pub will be open year-round, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.