Early 18th century coaching inn on the old Great North Road. Mentioned in the Charles Dickens book Nicholas Nickelby, and guests have included Samuel Pepys. Four distinct bar areas create an intimate atmosphere with exposed beams and varied furnishings. One bar area is dominated by a huge inglenook fireplace and wood settles. At the rear, a comfortable restaurant. An extensive garden includes a patio area and pétanque court.
As of Aug 2024 food is not available but is planned in 2-3 months and before the end of the year. Introduction of cask ale is planned soon. See the pub's Instagram account for updates.
Historic Interest
Early 18th century coaching inn on the Great North road. The oldest fittings are on the right hand side and include a splendid fitted curved high backed settle; part glazed partition wall; and another curved one at the rear of the servery. The wood surround of the inglenook fireplace and some dado panelling are of some age. The layout of four small rooms across the front of the building has been like this for 40+ years, although it is doubtful they were all bars in the past. The counters could be 50/60s but the bar back shelves are modern. Behind the bar on the left has been subject to recent changes and the building has been extended to the rear. Mentioned in the Charles Dickens book Nicholas Nickelby, and guests have included Samuel Pepys.
One star - A pub interior of special national historic interest
Listed status: II
The oldest features in this early 18th century Great North Road coaching inn are in the right hand area - fine curved high-back settle, part-glazed partition wall and inglenook fireplace. The layout has seen much alteration over the years and the rear extensions are recent.
Early 18th century coaching inn on the Great North road. The oldest fittings are on the right hand side and include a splendid fitted curved high backed settle, part glazed partition wall, and another curved one at the rear of the servery. The wood surround of the inglenook fireplace and some dado panelling are of some age. The layout of four small rooms across the front of the building has been like this for 40+ years, although it is doubtful they were all bars in the past. The counters may be 1950/1960s but the bar back shelves are modern. Behind the bar on the left has been subject to recent changes and the building has been extended to the rear.
White Horse, Eaton Socon