An exciting new chapter is beginning at the White Horse View as new operators have taken on the popular Westbury venue.
The Frome‑based Kingston Group took over last week with plans to make it one of Wiltshire’s leading venues for food, music and community events.
Director Gradyn Runyeard‑Hunt, who has worked in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years, says the group has exciting ideas to give the venue in Coach Road a new lease of life.
Gradyn said they had been looking for a site in the area and “jumped at the chance” when the White Horse View became available.
“It’s a fantastic site with incredible views and huge potential,” he said. “We want to move things up a gear and make the White Horse View a true destination for community here in Westbury and the wider area.”
Looking ahead, there are ambitions for festivals, seasonal markets and other large scale community events.
“We have built a strong team, including an experienced head chef, and our aim is to offer good quality food that people can enjoy any day of the week, from brunch and light lunches through to roasts and small plates,” said Gradyn. “And there is huge potential here for live music and events and we want to showcase local bands and bring in high quality tribute acts and themed nights, making it one of the best venues for entertainment in the area.”
Live entertainment starts this Friday 13th February with local favourite Garry Irvin and a 90s Ibiza Night on Friday 20th February, while tribute nights are lined up celebrating artists including the Stereophonics, Christina Aguilera and Chappell Roan.
Food will be a central focus, with a menu designed to suit everything from coffee and a light lunch to Sunday roasts. Dishes include traditional roasts, pie of the day, burgers, fish and chips and a wide range of small plates. A dedicated brunch menu is also available.
The kitchen is led by a new head chef, George Hill, who previously worked at Bowood. The venue is committed to using local suppliers as part of its ‘Field to Fork’ approach, including Scrumpet butchers in Bradford-on-Avon, alongside local ciders and ales such as Hawkstone lager.
The new owners will also build on the venue’s reputation as a sports venue, with live sport shown on big screen TVs, including this summer’s World Cup, which will be screened outdoors if the weather allows. Facilities include golf, pool, darts and fishing.
Plans are in place to develop the site as one of the area’s leading wedding venues, making the most of its views of the White Horse. A Wedding Fayre is due to take place on Saturday 28th February, giving couples the chance to explore the venue, meet suppliers and gather inspiration.
“The setting makes it a natural choice for weddings and celebrations,” added Gradyn. “With the view of the White Horse, we think it can become one of the standout wedding venues in the area.”
Gradyn said they are also hoping to make the venue a hub for the local community with plans to host local groups, dance and martial arts classes, charity organisations and other community activities. Events for children and families are also planned, with details to be shared on the venue’s Facebook page.
Looking ahead, there are ambitions for festivals, seasonal markets and other large scale community events.
“We want the White Horse View to be a place the whole community feels proud of, whether that’s popping in for a coffee, bringing the family for a Sunday roast or coming along to a live music night,” added Gradyn.
For more details visit the White Horse View website or Facebook page or call 01373 896712
