Greene King pub ready to reopen after major refurbishment

Contractors have been working at The White Horse on the corner of Spring Road and Ock Street in Abingdon, and the pub is expected to reopen at noon on Thursday, May 7.

The pub shut on April 4 so that work could get under way.

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The new managers said they “can’t wait” to welcome customers.

One manager Sean Devey stated: “The White Horse on Ock Street is officially reopening under new management on May 7 – and we can’t wait to welcome you back.

“We’re also on the lookout for a darts team. Think you’ve got what it takes? Get in touch and be part of the action.

“We’re hosting a darts competition on May 26. Spread the word, bring your mates, and let’s make it a night to remember.”

The landlords said in a statement earlier: “We’re really looking forward to becoming part of this amazing community, getting to know you all, and making the pub a warm, welcoming place for everyone to enjoy.

“Please do pop in after the refurb, say hello, and join us for a drink.”

The White Horse in Abingdon (Image: Andy Ffrench)

The renovation is expected to include a comprehensive remodelling, including a colour touch-up ‘all over’ the pub, a newly decorated back bar, a ‘facelift’ for the toilets, a new darts and bar area, and a redesign for the beer garden.

Before the Greene King pub shut, a notice to customers said: “We’ll miss you. From Doreen and the team at The White Horse, we would like to say a big thank you for everything over the last three years.”

The pub will now be run as a Hive franchise.

The White Horse in Abingdon (Image: Andy Ffrench)

It has been popular for dining, with reasonably priced pub food including fish and chips, and for its big screens which feature sports including Premier League football matches.

The Oxford branch of real ale group CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) said the pub building was Grade II listed.

It added: “Originally owned by the Borough of Abingdon, the White Horse dates back to 1845 and had a number of tenants who were coal merchants and publicans before the Morland family ownership.

“In 1999, Greene King became the new owners and extended this Grade II-listed building to provide dining facilities.

“This traditional English pub has a beer garden in front and its own car park.”

The White Horse was previously run by the town’s Morland brewery which closed in 2000.

The Royal British Legion nearby in Spring Road also has a bar, and hosts bands and other events.