Shepherd Neame to reopen £1m Westminster pub

The White Horse and Bower, a London pub near Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, will reopen on September 10 following a £950,000 refurbishment by Shepherd Neame.

At the heart of the redesign of the 1816 pub is a bespoke reclaimed oak bar. New banquette seating in aged leather and velvet has also been added, with a more private setting offered in rear booths, separated by handmade stained-glass screens.

There is also a reclaimed full-height timber fireplace, antique light fittings and traditional hand-painted Lincrusta wall finishes. A new herringbone timber floor with a bespoke Persian-design carpet is another part of the project.

"The White Horse and Bower is a fantastic pub in an incredible location," says operations manager Ryan Torrie. "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."

What's on the menu?

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

There will also be a 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. 

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