New landlords reopening The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean near Faversham say ‘it is in safe hands’

New landlords reopening The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean near Faversham say ‘it is in safe hands’
A village pub has been taken over and transformed by a new family who reassure it is “in safe hands”.

The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean, near Faversham, shut last month when landlady Claire Ealham said the business was “not financially viable”.

The Thompson family outside The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean. Picture: Shepherd NeameThe Thompson family outside The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean. Picture: Shepherd Neame
The Thompson family outside The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean. Picture: Shepherd Neame

Now, a new family has taken it over with a new menu, wine bar and deli.

Sharon and Gordon Thompson, along with all their grown-up children, already run four other Shepherd Neame venues.

They welcomed customers back on November 29 and have lovingly restored its period features.

The family said: “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.

Yvonne Neame (centre) officially reopens The White Horse alongside Sharon and Gordon Thompson. Picture: Shepherd NeameYvonne Neame (centre) officially reopens The White Horse alongside Sharon and Gordon Thompson. Picture: Shepherd Neame
Yvonne Neame (centre) officially reopens The White Horse alongside Sharon and Gordon Thompson. Picture: Shepherd Neame

“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.”

The Castle Hotel in Eynsford, The Abbey Hotel in Battle, East Sussex, The White Horse Inn in Maldon, Essex and The Woolpack Inn in Chilham are all overseen by the Thompson’s.

In their latest venture, they have transformed the restaurant area into a contemporary style with bric-a-brac, an impressive wine bar, and a deli counter showcasing locally produced cheeses.

The doors were officially reopened to all by Yvonne Neame, wife of the late President of Shepherd Neame, Robert “Bobby” Neame.

Mrs Neame, 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.

The new restaurant area at The White Horse, Boughton-under-Blean. Picture: Shepherd NeameThe new restaurant area at The White Horse, Boughton-under-Blean. Picture: Shepherd Neame
The new restaurant area at The White Horse, Boughton-under-Blean. Picture: Shepherd Neame
The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean closed last month but has now reopened. Picture: Shepherd NeameThe White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean closed last month but has now reopened. Picture: Shepherd Neame
The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean closed last month but has now reopened. Picture: Shepherd Neame

“Everything they do is of the highest standard and I am delighted to be able to officially open their latest venture which I am sure will also prove to be a huge success.”

The White Horse have its last full day of trading on October 5, with a final breakfast service the following day.

Mrs Ealham, her husband Chris and daughter Molly continue to run their other tavern, the Red Lion in Charing Heath.

Just five minutes up the road, The Queen’s Head also closed recently.

Licensee Claire Hammon-Miller cited a desire to spend more time with family.

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