CELEBRATIONS MARK THE START OF A NEW ERA FOR SHEPHERD NEAME’S WESTMINSTER ARMS AFTER A £1.2M REFURBISHMENT

Around 100 people gathered to herald a new era for Shepherd Neame’s landmark London pub, the Westminster Arms, at its official reopening following a £1.2 million refurbishment on Tuesday (March 25).

The historic building – a stone’s throw from the Houses of Parliament, and complete with a Division Bell to remind MPs to get back to the House to vote – has been renovated throughout all of its five floors, 

An iconic 19th century building, the stylish refurbishment, which included installing the latest sustainable technology including a smart cellar and all-electric kitchen, has been topped off with a specially created paint, Westminster Plum, made by fellow Royal Warrant Holder, Mylands Paint.

The deep purple now adorns the impressive exterior of the pub, owned by the Faversham-based independent family brewer, which is popular with locals, MPs and tourists alike.

Shepherd Neame Chief Executive Jonathan Neame said, toasting the successful completion of the project: “We are here to celebrate this £1.2m refurbishment which ensures this pub is fit for the 21st century. This is a moment that makes Shepherd Neame very proud and, I hope, the industry too. I hope this is the beginning of a new and wonderful era for this outstanding pub.”

He added: "This industry, possibly more than any other, is about people – people make pubs. And the team here are so passionate about serving you.”

Echoing his words, Tonia Antoniazzi, Gower MP and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group, who pulled the first official pint, said: “It’s an honour to be here, and to join you in celebrating the reopening of this unique pub. This is a great place to come and meet people and be in each other’s company.”

The pub team is now led by General Manager Augustas Jankauskas, and includes newly-appointed team members and long-serving ones, including Francois Dechamps who has worked there for 25 years.

The previous General Manager, Gerry Dolan, who ran the pub for 30 years before retiring last year, was among the assembled guests, which also included many who had worked on the project.

To mark the occasion, Jonathan Neame presented a cheque for £1,000 to Dame Laura Lee, Chief Executive of the charity Maggie’s which provides free expert cancer care and support in centres built beside NHS hospitals across the UK, including in London at Bart’s, the Royal Free and Charing Cross. 
 

The pub now has new signwriting and a new main bar which provides a focal point for customers as they enter. Its original wood panelling has been enhanced and the building has been repainted throughout.

Now open seven days a week, its Queen Anne Dining Room on the first floor has been redesigned and downstairs, the Cellar Bar has been completely renovated.

The pub’s 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, as well as a selection of bar snacks.

 
Customers can choose from an extensive selection of award-winning Shepherd Neame beers, along with acclaimed English wines. There will also 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.

You can find The Westminster Arms at 9 & 10 Storey Gate, Westminster, SW1P 3AT, by calling 020 7222 8520 or visit www.westminsterarms.co.uk.