A pub near Hampstead Heath that has been closed and boarded up for nearly five years will reopen in time for Christmas.
The Cork & Bottle on the corner of Fleet Road and Constantine Road in South End Green will open temporarily in December.
Star Pubs is operating the venue under temporary management as they seek a licensee to take the pub forward in 2025.
The pub, formerly called the White Horse, can trace its origins back to 1721. Literary customers include George Orwell, who worked at a bookshop opposite, and playwright Joe Orton.
It was taken over by agent Davis Coffer Lyons in 2018 but shuttered two years later with a message on its website from managing director Will Clayton, who told punters that the pandemic had hit footfall, and reopening meant the pub would “haemorrhage cash”.
In 2021 the East London Pub Co, which ran the Ten Bells in Spitalfields and the Lock Tavern in Camden Town, leased the pub from owner and landlord Star Pubs.
The East London Pub Co owner Patrick Frawley told the Ham&High he would rename it the Bell of Hampstead and was “super excited” to restore the character of the old Victorian pub “to its former glory and inject a new lease of life with some cool east London vibes”.
But East London Pub Co never opened the pub and went into administration in 2023.
Jonathan Bergman, owner of estate agent Amberden Estates in South Hill Park, said he was "very relieved indeed" by the reopening.
He added: "It's a beautiful building that became a blot on the landscape.
"It would be a very welcome arrival and revival, especially for Christmas.
"I am sure residents and traders will also be relieved."
A Star Pubs spokesperson said: "The Cork & Bottle is reopening under temporary management in early December so the community can use it again during the festive season.
"We plan to undertake a full refurbishment in 2025 are looking to recruit a licensee to take the pub forward.
"Anyone who is interested in leasing the pub can call our recruitment line on 08085 949596 or visit www.starpubs.co.uk.
"Details of the opportunity will be online in the new year.”
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