The White Hart pub in Newton Abbot has reopened its doors following a significant £276,000 investment by leading pub company Punch Pubs & Co.
The extensive refurbishment has transformed the pub inside and out, creating a bright, welcoming and versatile space designed to bring people together for its new chapter as part of the pub company’s Unity Social business unit.
Major works include a refreshed main bar, improved social seating areas, a dedicated darts and pool zone, upgraded AV systems alongside two enhanced outdoor drinking areas – well-suited to both everyday occasions and the world’s biggest sporting events.
As part of its relaunch, the pub will offer a consistent weekly rhythm of activity, including pool and darts leagues, quiz nights, karaoke, entertainment and live sports – creating a lively and engaging guest experience seven days a week.
Leading the relaunch is new Management Partner Kate, whose journey at The White Hart is a deeply personal one. Having been a huge part of the pub for many years – first as a customer and later as a team member – Kate has now taken the step to lead the business, bringing her passion and vision to the newly refurbished pub to life.
Supporting her is her daughter and Assistant Manager Aleesha, with the mother-daughter duo playing a key role in shaping the pub’s new identity, with a strong focus on standards, service and team culture.
“It’s incredibly special for me,” Kate said. “This pub has always been part of my life – from being a customer, to working here, and now leading it as a business. It means a lot, and I’m really proud of what we’re building.
“To have Aleesha alongside me makes it even more special. She’s been there from day one, and together we’re building something we’re really proud of.”
Under Kate and Aleesha’s leadership, The White Hart is being redefined as a modern community pub – where atmosphere, consistency and connection are a unique part of its DNA.
“It’s about the people and always has been,” Kate continued. “We want a pub that’s busy, welcoming and full of life, where people want to come back time and time again.”
Rachael Henry, Senior Operations Manager at Punch Pubs & Co, said: “This investment is about creating a pub that truly sits at the heart of its community. There’s a fantastic opportunity here to deliver a vibrant, sport – and entertainment-led local where everyone feels welcome – that’s exactly what we do across our Unity Social pubs. Kate, Aleesha and their team are perfectly placed to bring that ambition to life and live by our purpose that in a Unity Social pub, no one is to feel alone.”
To support the relaunch, Kate has introduced a ‘VIP Season Ticket’, offering guests 10% off during all Premier League and Champions League fixtures, with further plans already lined up ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Guests will also be pleased to hear that the pub now opens at 12 pm daily, and is encouraging local businesses, groups and community clubs to take advantage of its vast space to bring people together and connect in a safe environment.
Having reopened earlier this month, the team is ready to welcome both new and returning guests back through its doors to experience its new look, vibrant atmosphere and packed programme of events for 2026.
More information about upcoming events at the pub can be found on The White Hart’s website and social media pages.
Pub website: The White Hart – Unity Social Pub Co
Pub social media: The White Hart, Newton Abbot (Newton Abbot)