London Village Inns takes sixth pub

The Westbury, due to open in October, will focus on craft beer and classic pub food.

The group, which is led by Martin and Diane Harley, also has The Wrestlers in Highgate, Jolly Butchers in Stoke Newington, Brownswood near Finsbury, the Crown & Anchor in Brixton and The Rose & Crown in Stoke Newington.

The latest addition, the Westbury will receive joint investment from Punch and Village Inns of £400,000 to refurbish the premises as a high quality local pub.

Managing director Martin Harley said: “We’re proud to bring The Westbury into our portfolio. The pub is in an up and coming area and we have exciting plans to restore it to its former glory. There won’t be any gimmicks; this is all about stripping the pub back to what makes it a great local - a focus on quality beers, specialising in real ale and cider, combined with a quality pub menu, great service and good conversation.”

In a joint development with Punch the six-week redevelopment will include remodelling the bar area to include an open kitchen and complete internal redecoration.

Ruth Williams is senior reporter on the PMA's sister title M&C Report​. ​