Historic Greenwich pub reopens after six-figure refurbishment

By Adam Shaw, Local Democracy Reporter

An historic South-east London pub is set to reopen after a six-figure refurbishment in an area that has seen 76 pubs disappear in the past 20 years.

The Kings Arms, in King William Walk, Greenwich, has been decked out, inside and out, in “traditional” style after being shut for four weeks.

Based near Greenwich Park, the pub hopes to become a hot spot for residents after it was fitted with oak panelling throughout as well as a new bar, seating areas and a fresh-look courtyard.

The news brings hope for the pub industry in the area, after statistics showed it had lost nearly a quarter of all drinking establishments in the past two decades.

The Kings Arms opened in 1891 and since then has been a mainstay in Greenwich; it doubled up as a bunker during the Second World War. It has space for up to 160 customers.

The pub’s manager Sarah Hirsch said: “The Kings Arms is a staple part of Greenwich life and its history and it’s great to see it get a new lease of life following our refurbishment, which will make it feel like a home from home for our customers.

“After four weeks of being closed, myself and the team cannot wait to welcome old and new customers back and I’m sure they will love our new look.”

The Campaign for Real Ale has consistently called for the pub industry to be given more support, with several boozers struggling to reopen following closures during the Covid pandemic.

It has welcomed the news that more places are opening as the country returns to normal, but stressed there is a lot more that needs to be done to protect traditional pubs.

Pictured top: The newly refurbished King’s Arms Picture: Greene King