18th Century pub could reopen in time for World Cup

An 18th century pub that has been closed for nearly a year could reopen in time for the World Cup.

The White Horse in West Street, Cromer, will be back in business next week, according to hospitality company Stonegate, which owns it.

It has been open intermittently since 2023, with tenants coming and going, since long-term landlady Annie Kemp left after 18 years behind the bar.

Jill Boyle, a town councillor, said: "I'm really hopeful Stonegate has found someone with the right credentials to make it a really successful pub again."

Boyle, a Liberal Democrat who also represents the Cromer Town ward on North Norfolk District Council, added: "The pub was so stable for many years but recently, no one has been successfully able to keep it going.

"It is a lovely character building and a traditional old pub.

"It could be a very good time for the pub to open.

"It is the start of the season so they will be able to get money into the bank before the quieter low season, when you are more reliant on locals."

A spokesperson for Stonegate, the UK's largest pub and bar operator, said: "The White Horse is expected to reopen in the next week or so, with the aim of being open in time for the start of the World Cup."

The firm did not provide any details of who the new landlords are.

The World Cup, being held in the US, Canada and Mexico, starts on 11 June.

Time differences mean some games will be shown early in the morning in the UK.

Pubs will be able to open late for any home nation knockout match.

Under the temporary change, pubs in England and Wales can open until 01:00 BST for the knockout ties, and until 02:00 for matches that kick-off at 22:00.

For any very late kick-offs, they can apply for a temporary licence.

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