A new chapter for the Coach & Horses

Britain’s oldest brewer takes the reins on a new chapter for Mayfair’s oldest surviving pub, The Coach and Horses

An elegant horse-drawn carriage drew crowds as the show-stopping centrepiece of the reopening of Mayfair’s oldest surviving pub, The Coach and Horses, following a major refurbishment by independent family brewer and pub company Shepherd Neame.

The carriage, drawn by a pair of black steeds, provided a fitting nod to the pub’s name and echoed its new bespoke swing sign, featuring a coach and horses, outside the Grade II-listed building in Hill Street.

Just a stone's throw from Berkeley Square, the building has welcomed generations of customers since 1744. Following a three week closure, it reopened on Tuesday (August 25) with a refreshed new look and feel that celebrates the pub's rich heritage while sensitively updating it for the future.

The refurbishment has seen the pub undergo a complete external redecoration, including the new handcrafted swing sign and classic red lantern above the entrance. 

Traditional barrels remain at the heart of its outdoor space, complemented by new heated awnings to ensure customers can enjoy the terrace throughout the seasons. 

Inside, new décor, furniture, flooring and wall finishes complement the pub's listed bar, which has been carefully preserved. 

The horse-drawn carriage was arranged to herald the pub’s doors reopening, whisking one lucky competition winner, Millie Wenham, and two friends, on a ride around the area. They returned to receive a hamper of Kentish goodies from the Faversham-based brewer.

The reopening also saw the launch of a new food offer centred around speciality flatbreads and charcuterie boards, complementing Shepherd Neame's range of award-winning Kentish ales and lagers, premium English wines, spirits and soft drinks.

"We have been delighted to invest in one of London's great historic pubs, The Coach and Horses, to honour its past and invest in its future for its loyal, local customers and new ones.

"We believe we have preserved what makes this pub so special while creating an experience that reflects modern Mayfair - tasteful and traditional surroundings, complemented by great service and a quality food and drink offer.”

Shepherd Neame Operations Manager, David Hutchings

The refurbishment forms part of Shepherd Neame’s ongoing investment in its premium London estate, following recent projects at the Hoop and Grapes, The White Horse and Bower, Tom Cribb and Westminster Arms.

Find out more at www.coachandhorsesmayfair.co.uk