BREWER SHEPHERD NEAME HOPES CUSTOMERS WILL ELECT TO VISIT THE WESTMINSTER ARMS AS IT UNVEILS A £1.2M REFURBISHMENT

Independent family brewer Shepherd Neame has undertaken a £1.2 million transformation of its landmark London pub in the heart of the political scene, The Westminster Arms.

The new-look watering hole, which reopened to customers on Monday (March 17), has undergone a 10-week, premium refurbishment, befitting its status as an iconic building steeped in history.

A stone’s throw from the Houses of Parliament, it boasts a division bell by its bar so that MPs can dash back to the House to vote.

The pub has undergone a full external redecoration, including new signwriting and awning. Inside, its new, stylish yet classic look now includes a brand new main bar, providing a focal point for customers as they enter, and complete redecoration both inside and out.

As part of the project, Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame, and Royal Warrant Holder for its Spitfire Amber Ale and Grant’s Morella Cherry Brandy, has partnered with fellow Royal Warrant Holder Mylands. Britain’s oldest family-run paint manufacturer to use a bespoke deep purple paint specially for the Westminster Arms.

The pub’s traditional wood panelling throughout has been enhanced with the introduction of traditional drinks shelves towards the front of the pub, allowing for trading throughout the day, for customers just popping in at lunchtime or after work drinks.

Now open seven days a week, its accommodation is spread over three floors, with the redesigned Queen Anne Dining Room on its first floor and downstairs, the completely renovated Cellar Bar.

Shepherd Neame Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said: “We are immensely proud to have such an iconic London pub within our estate and have taken great care to refurbish it to the highest of standards, and in keeping with such a prestigious pub in a fantastic, central location.

“We have brought in experienced General Manager Augustas Jankauskas who now leads the team, which includes some newly-created roles, and Head Chef Darius Rumsas and Assistant Manager Steven Hadley. We can’t wait to show our customers what the Westminster Arms now offers, and we believe once they have visited, the ayes will definitely have it!” 

The pub also now has new furniture and its kitchen facilities have been expanded to allow for the introduction of a delicious new menu, including a traditional Sunday roast and exclusive signature Roasted Pork Tomahawk dish, using locally sourced ingredients where possible. 

Besides the beers and wines, there will be a particular focus on premium spirits, including a list of 35 different whiskies and new range of cocktails. Shepherd Neame’s bespoke Creekside Coffee is also available.

As part of the company’s commitment to sustainability, an all-electric kitchen has been installed, and its cellar has been upgraded with the latest energy-saving technology, as well as new energy-saving fridges and LED lighting being installed.