Experiencing the Walmer Castle: History, Art, and Modern British Dining
Just off the bustling Portobello Road, tucked away on the stylish Ledbury Road, lies The Walmer Castle. This Notting Hill pub, established in 1845, offers a captivating blend of history, art, and modern vibes. Once owned by David Beckham and Guy Ritchie, this now family-run establishment exudes a cozy atmosphere, showcasing an impressive art collection and a menu brimming with delectable British dishes crafted from local ingredients. Let’s explore this Notting Hill gem and discover its unique charm.
A Notting Hill Landmark
The Walmer Castle is more than just a trendy spot; it’s a piece of Notting Hill history. This Victorian-era pub has witnessed the neighborhood’s evolution, from its humble beginnings to its days under the ownership of David Beckham and Guy Ritchie. The current family ownership has breathed new life into the pub, seamlessly blending its classic charm with contemporary elegance. This careful restoration respects the pub’s rich heritage while offering a fresh and inviting space for patrons to enjoy. For those interested in exploring other historical sites, discover the serene ruins and rich history of Wenlock Priory.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere. The decor seamlessly blends traditional pub charm with a modern, artistic touch. The thoughtfully curated art collection adorns the walls, creating a unique ambiance that sets the Walmer Castle apart. It’s a space where you can relax and unwind, whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch, celebrating a special occasion, or indulging in their renowned Sunday roast.
Culinary Delights
The Walmer Castle’s menu showcases modern British cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The seasonally changing menus highlight the best of each season, offering a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds. The Sunday roast, in particular, comes highly recommended by patrons and is considered a must-try.
Drinks and Service
The Walmer Castle boasts an excellent selection of beers and other beverages, catering to diverse tastes. The friendly and attentive staff contributes to the warm, family-run feel, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and valued.
Private Dining and Events
For those seeking a venue for special occasions, the Walmer Castle offers private dining rooms, perfect for intimate gatherings and celebrations. Throughout the year, the pub hosts a variety of special events, from Oktoberfest celebrations to Christmas festivities, adding to its vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.
Booking and Ratings
Reservations are recommended and can easily be made through OpenTable or the pub’s website. The Walmer Castle’s impressive 4.5-star rating on OpenTable, based on over a hundred reviews, speaks volumes about the quality of food, service, and overall experience. Guests consistently praise the “amazing food,” “friendly and attentive service,” and “beautiful interior.” While some visitors have mentioned the relatively high prices, many believe the quality justifies the cost. For a comfortable stay near another stunning historical site, browse our selection of exceptional Warkworth hotels.
Does David Beckham Own the Walmer Castle?
The short answer is no. While David Beckham, along with Guy Ritchie, did own the Walmer Castle in 2018, their tenure was brief. They purchased the pub for a reported £3 million, envisioning a trendy Soho House-style establishment in Beckham’s Notting Hill neighborhood. However, their involvement ended relatively quickly, leaving the pub to navigate a series of ownership changes.
The Post-Beckham Era
Following Beckham and Ritchie’s departure, the Walmer Castle was briefly under the ownership of Piers Adam, an entrepreneur and hotelier who was also Ritchie’s business partner in The Punch Bowl pub. This transition occurred around February 2022, but Adam’s ownership was also short-lived.
The Greenalls’ Reign
In October 2023, Jack and Poppy Greenall, a husband-and-wife team with experience in the hospitality industry, took over the Walmer Castle. They embarked on an extensive refurbishment, aiming to revitalize the pub and honor its historic legacy. The Greenalls have expressed a commitment to maintaining the pub’s role as a community hub while offering a high-quality dining experience. The exact reasons for the previous ownership changes remain somewhat unclear, adding an air of intrigue to the pub’s history. It’s possible that management challenges, changing market conditions, or shifts in the initial investors’ priorities contributed to the transitions. Further research may shed light on these factors.
Can You Get Married at Walmer Castle?
Yes, you absolutely can! The Walmer Castle offers more than just a pub experience; it’s a unique and charming wedding venue in the heart of Notting Hill. The newly renovated space blends historic charm with modern elegance, providing a memorable setting for weddings of all sizes.
A Unique Wedding Venue
The Walmer Castle offers two floors of individually designed private event spaces, suitable for intimate gatherings or larger receptions. The recent refurbishment, completed in November 2023, has transformed the pub into a stylish and elegant venue while preserving its Victorian charm. The bar, designed by Isabella Worsley and crafted by Rupert Bevan, adds a touch of sophistication and serves as a focal point of the space.
Food and Festivities
Chef Luaan van de Watt crafts bespoke menus for weddings, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. From casual dining options like Scotch eggs and gourmet burgers to more formal sit-down dinners and traditional Sunday roasts, the culinary team is dedicated to creating a memorable dining experience for your special day.
Planning Your Wedding
Planning your wedding at the Walmer Castle is straightforward. You can contact the pub directly or explore their OpenTable profile, which boasts a stellar 4.5-star rating from over a hundred reviews. Jack and Poppy Greenall are committed to making your wedding planning process seamless and unforgettable, working closely with you to ensure that your vision comes to life.
Who Owns the Walmer Castle?
The Walmer Castle, a Notting Hill institution since 1845, has a rich and layered ownership history. After a brief period under the ownership of David Beckham and Guy Ritchie in 2018, followed by a short tenure by Piers Adam in 2022, the pub is now under the stewardship of Jack and Poppy Greenall.
The Greenalls’ Vision
The Greenalls, also owners of The Surprise pub in Chelsea, have undertaken a complete revitalization of the Walmer Castle. Designer Isabella Worsley oversaw the refurbishment, blending classic pub décor with modern design elements. Rupert Bevan crafted the unique bar, which has become a central feature of the renovated space. The Greenalls aim to honor the pub’s history and community role while providing a refined dining experience with a British-inspired menu. Their commitment to quality and community engagement suggests a promising future for this historic Notting Hill pub. It will be interesting to observe how their approach impacts the Walmer Castle’s long-term success in the competitive London pub scene. However, given the industry’s inherent fluctuations, only time will tell the full story of their ownership and its contribution to the pub’s enduring legacy.
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