Shepherd Neame’s 600-year-old country inn The White Horse, located in the village of Boughton-under-Blean, Kent, has officially reopened its doors under the new management of experienced licensees the Thompson family.
The pub has seen its period features lovingly restored and enhanced to preserve its unique character since the Thompsons – who already run four hotels, bars and restaurants with the Faversham-based brewer – took over. It now offers a warm, welcoming space that beautifully blends historic charm with modern luxury.
With more than 40 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Sharon and Gordon Thompson, along with all their grown-up children, run The Castle Hotel in Eynsford, Kent; The Abbey Hotel in Battle, East Sussex; The White Horse Inn in Maldon, Essex; The Woolpack Inn in Chilham, and now, their fifth, The White Horse Inn.
Named after the historic White Horse, which was referred to in Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, it has been reinvigorated to welcome customers back in the past month, thanks to the family, in partnership with Shepherd Neame.
On Friday 29 November, its doors were officially reopened to all by Yvonne Neame, wife of the late President of Shepherd Neame, Robert “Bobby” Neame.
Yvonne, who lived in the village for 50 years, said: “The Thompsons do an amazing job, and I have seen how they have transformed both the building and the menu at The Woolpack in Chilham.
“Everything they do is of the highest standard and I am delighted to be able to officially open their latest venture, The White Horse, which I am sure will also prove to be a huge success.”
The Thompsons, who won ‘Pub of the Year’ in the 2024 Shepherd Neame Pub of the Year Awards, have reinstated the bar with traditional brass real ale pumps, complemented by a selection of contemporary lagers and a warming log burner for a cosy atmosphere in the colder months.
The restaurant has undergone a transformation into a stylish, contemporary space filled with charming bric-a-brac, an impressive wine bar, and a deli counter showcasing locally produced cheeses from Kent and East Sussex.
The inn’s 12 bedrooms are also receiving careful attention, combining modern comforts with the building’s original features to create a perfect blend of history and luxury.
A new menu has been introduced with an array of dishes inspired by locally sourced ingredients and global flavours. With a theme of “vintage country,” guests can expect classic dishes reimagined with a modern twist, all served on elegant vintage dinnerware.
They can be paired with Shepherd Neame’s award-winning ales and lagers or an extensive selection of premium wines, spirits and expertly crafted cocktails.
The White Horse also reopens as the holiday season approaches. Throughout December, it will be serving a specially curated festive menu. It will also be open for Christmas Day gatherings between 12pm and 3pm for a festive drink.
There are also plans for a New Year’s Eve party, where customers can eat fine food, with table decorations, and later dance the night away with music before toasting in 2025 with Big Ben’s chimes and a rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne.
The family said: “Whether it’s a casual drink or a special celebration, our team, led by manager Rebecca Wells, is here to make your experience unforgettable, and our menu offers something for everyone. Rest assured, The White Horse Inn is in safe hands.
“We are excited to meet everyone and welcome them in and look forward to becoming part of the wonderful community around Boughton.”
