Historic Westminster pub reopens following stunning £950,000 transformation

The White Horse and Bower, a landmark pub just minutes from Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, reopened today (Wednesday, 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 welcoming guests once again, combining its rich heritage with a stylish new look and contemporary comfort.

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 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 enriches 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 adds to the warm, layered feel of the interior.

Outside, the pub’s original tiled façade has been 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 create a more open, indoor-outdoor feel.

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

The expanded kitchen is serving up a delicious new menu, with a focus on locally sourced seasonal produce and relaxed, shareable dishes. Perfect for grazing, bar favourites on offer 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 is also 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 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 are also a speciality, with choices including smash beef or the plant-based Fable mushroom.

At the weekend, customers can 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 ales and lagers are available, including its new Iron Wharf stout, which also features in the pub’s exclusive take on a classic Black Velvet, blended with English sparkling wine and Negroni, along with a selection of premium wines including several from Kent’s flourishing vineyards.

The White Horse and Bower is also set to 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: “Our team, led by General Manager Aurelija Bodian, are thrilled to welcome customers back to The White Horse and Bower. It is a fantastic pub in an incredible location, and our aim with this project has been to honour its history while breathing fresh life into it. Working with skilled local craftspeople and contractors, we’ve taken care to bring authenticity and artistry to every detail, and are extremely proud of the finished result.

“Combined with our vibrant new food and drink offer and the great programme of live events we have lined up, we are confident that The White Horse and Bower will quickly re-establish itself as one of Westminster’s most vibrant destinations.”

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.

Find out more at www.whitehorseandbower.co.uk