The White Lion pub on Sopwell Lane, has reopened this week following a £52k investment by leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
The quintessential village pub, which is a popular spot for locals and passing city goers, has been revived by the transformation, reopening under new management by experienced hospitality star, Ashley Metcalfe.
Its transformation incorporates changes to both the interior and exterior of the pub, as well as a brand-new food menu and open-plan beer garden for guests to relax and soak up the sunshine in.
Ashley has worked locally for over a decade, gaining valuable experience and forming strong community ties. He immediately seized the opportunity to be at the helm of the White Lion, and couldn’t wait to reopen the pub. He said: “It’s been a fantastic few weeks meeting the team, training and getting to know our guests as well as seeing the transformation take place. The White Lion is a fantastic, beloved pub, and I feel incredibly proud to have reopened it, creating a welcome space for guests to come back through the door.”
The doors to the White Lion officially reopened on Thursday, the 10th of April, after welcoming small groups of guests to their soft launches and food taster evenings earlier that week.
Playing a huge part in the pub’s transformation is the White Lion’s new menu, which has been elevated with dishes for everyone to enjoy. The new Spring menu features seasonal dishes fresh for the relaunch, including Italian burrata and pesto, Devonshire potted crab with sourdough and chicken schnitzel, fries and garlic butter, alongside the two-course supper club menu and lunch and drink options, all of which can be perfectly paired with a selection of wines, beers and soft drinks.
Physically, the pub has also undergone a minor refresh with the inside of the White Lion having been repainted, reupholstered and adorned with soft furnishings that complement its rustic charm. The traditional style also now features cosy corners and alfresco dining for both family occasions and casual outings.
Guests will be delighted to discover the outdoor suntrap, now unveiled by removing the garden’s marquee. This generous garden offers a serene oasis where you can indulge in the new food menu, sip on a classic cocktail, or soak in the vibrant ambience surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Equally as important to the pub’s new menu is Ashley’s ambition to reignite the community spirit and ensure that the White Lion is the go-to place in the village. With connections with various local charities and groups, he hopes to bring the community together by organising fundraisers, events, and hosting live music and entertainment regularly.
He added: “It’s been a whirlwind week, but I’m so happy to have the doors open and I want to thank all of the guests who have supported me and the team so far. The feedback has been great, and the excitement to see the White Lion back in business was genuinely overwhelming. I can’t wait to settle in over the next few weeks and really start to put this beautiful pub firmly back on the map.”
Whilst the pub is back open and trading as normal, Ashley and the team are also inviting the wider community to join them for the White Lion’s official launch night on Thursday the 17th of April from 6 pm.
More information about the pub can be found on its website and social media pages.
Visit the pub website here: The White Lion