White Horse, Leamington Spa

The White Horse is an excellent example of how to expand a pubs trading area and viability but preserving the original three small roomed pub with its Victorian fittings. In 2006 the pub was doubled in size by the creation of a large new bar on the right. The original pub on the left has a public bar with what looks like the original bar counter. It is separated from the Vaults by a wood and glass partition including a door with 'Bar' on it and four narrow etched glass panels. The tiny Vaults has a disused front door with 'The White Horse Bar' on it. It retains its original Victorian two-sectioned bar back with a doorway between and clock above. The bar counter is possibly the original but has been raised. The other side of a lobby with 'The White Horse' on the front door and colourful tiled floor is the best surviving room. It is a former snug, and retains the original Victorian fixed seating on two sides with bell pushes in the panel above.

Note that the front Lobby and the Snug on the right are the only historic parts regularly open to the public. The old Bar and Vaults area on the left is normally only open for private hire, but it is visible through the windows and from the Lobby. To visit the original small bars it will be necessary for you to ask staff at a quiet time (or ring ahead). (SP Dec 2012).