Historic Westminster Pub To Reopen After £950 Transformation

The White Horse and Bower, a landmark London pub just minutes from Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, will reopen on September 10 following a stunning £950,000 refurbishment by independent family brewer and pub company Shepherd Neame.

First opened in 1816, the pub has long been a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Now, after a three-month transformation, it is set to welcome guests once again, blending its rich heritage with a bold, modern vision.

At the heart of the redesign is a bespoke reclaimed oak bar, repositioned to create a more open, welcoming atmosphere at the front of the pub. New banquette seating in aged leather and plush velvets will add comfort and character, with a more private setting offered in intimate rear booths, separated by handmade stained-glass screens.

A reclaimed full-height timber fireplace, antique light fittings, and traditional hand-painted Lincrusta wall finish will enrich the pub with a sense of history, supported by subtle nods to its Westminster location throughout carefully curated artwork. A new herringbone timber floor with a bespoke Persian-design carpet will add to the warm, layered feel of the interior.

Outside, the pub’s original tiled façade is being carefully restored, complemented by new awning and a bespoke hand-painted swing sign featuring the pub’s eponymous white horse. New bi-folding timber windows, bench seating and planters will create a more open, indoor-outdoor feel.

In line with Shepherd Neame’s commitment to sustainability, the refurbishment will include energy-efficient fridges, smart cellar technology, LED lighting, and an all-electric kitchen.

The expanded kitchen will serve up a delicious new menu, with a focus on locally sourced seasonal produce and relaxed, shareable dishes. Perfect for grazing, bar favourites on offer will include pork and sage Scotch egg with mustard mayo; chorizo and smoked pancetta pigs in blankets; chunky sausage rolls featuring Shepherd Neame’s award-winning 1698 ale and onion chutney; and hash brown puffs with crispy bacon, Parmesan and smoked mayo.

There will also be a delicious selection of small plates including miso-glazed aubergine with sweet tahini yoghurt; crispy salt and pepper dusted squid with citrus mayo; and grilled lamb koftas with smoky baba ganoush.

Larger dishes will include Whitstable Bay beer-battered haddock with chips; tandoori chicken skewers with warm quinoa salad; hot smoked salmon Niçoise, and a 5oz grilled sirloin with Parmesan and garlic butter. Burgers will also be a speciality, with choices including smash beef or the plant-based Fable mushroom.

At the weekend, customers will be able to enjoy a delicious new brunch menu, with dishes including ranch eggs with spinach and a spicy cheese sauce on a toasted English muffin; a hearty potato hash with pork meatballs, maple bacon and a fried egg; and shakshuka baked eggs with feta and pesto.

The drinks list has been completely reimagined, with a strong focus on quality and locality. An extensive range of Shepherd Neame’s award-winning Kentish beers will be available, including its new Iron Wharf stout, which will also feature in the pub’s exclusive take on a classic Black Velvet, blended with English sparkling wine.

There will be a particular focus on cocktails, from signature Margaritas and refreshing Mojitos to the pub’s own take on the Espresso Martini and Negroni, along with a selection of premium wines including several from Kent’s flourishing vineyards.

The White Horse and Bower will also host an exciting programme of events, including regular live music nights, designed to make it a go-to venue for both Westminster regulars and new visitors alike.

Operations Manager Ryan Torrie said:

“The White Horse and Bower is a fantastic pub in an incredible location. Our aim with this project is to preserve and celebrate its unique character while introducing a stylish, new experience. With a vibrant food and drink offer, live events, and beautiful surroundings, we’re confident it will become a local favourite once again. We can’t wait to open the doors and welcome everyone back.”

The pub will be open every day, with food served from 11am to 9pm, Monday to Tuesday; 11am to 10pm, Wednesday to Friday; 10am to 9pm on Saturday; and 10am to 8pm on Sunday.