Community members expressed their relief and excitement following the reopening of the Black Horse pub in Barnet, a historic establishment that dates back to the 1720s. The pub, which had been closed since September of the previous year, has been revitalized by three former patrons—Simon Anderson, Martin Taylor, and Danny Daly—who all reside within a five-minute walk from the venue.
Revival of a Historic Venue
Located at the intersection of Wood Street and Union Street, the Black Horse has a rich history as a former coaching inn. After securing the lease from Star Pubs, a subsidiary of Heineken, the trio worked diligently to transform the space from a construction site into a functioning pub in just over two weeks. Their efforts were bolstered by a community petition that garnered 4,000 signatures, reflecting the local desire to preserve this cherished gathering spot.
Martin Taylor, who serves as the director of Barnet Community Pubs, remarked on the overwhelming support from the community:
„People thought they would lose this pub and to be fair they have been getting back and supporting it. I can’t thank them enough.“
He noted that the local connections and friendships played a crucial role in the swift renovation process, with many volunteers contributing to the effort.
Significance of the Black Horse
Anderson highlighted the historical significance of Barnet, particularly in relation to its pubs and taverns. He stated,
„Barnet has a really interesting history when it comes to pubs and taverns because, if you were stagecoaching into London, this was pretty much where you’d get your last change of horses and your last stagecoach before you’d finish your trip.“
He further elaborated on the area’s literary connections, mentioning that Charles Dickens referred to Barnet as the „town of taverns,“ and that the character Oliver Twist was linked to the region.
In light of the pub’s reopening, Anderson emphasized the need to view pubs as more than mere businesses. He argued that they are vital components of British society and culture, stating,
„We need to start thinking of pubs and our hospitality and elements of our High Street as more than just businesses. They’re actually intrinsic to what it means for a lot of British society.“
He called for greater investment in the preservation of such establishments.
Community Sentiment
The sentiment among patrons reflects a deep appreciation for the Black Horse’s community-oriented approach. One customer expressed the collective feeling:
„The fact that three local guys that live within a couple of hundred metres of this place are reopening a pub as a community pub: that’s the difference. It’s not just a brand or anything: it is a proper community pub, and that’s very special.“
This sentiment underscores the importance of local ownership and community involvement in maintaining the character and spirit of the pub.
As the Black Horse continues to welcome back its patrons, the pub stands as a testament to the power of community action and the enduring significance of local establishments in fostering social connections.
Quellen: bbc.co.uk
Bildquelle: Bildquelle: (Augustin-Foto) Jonas Augustin auf Unsplash
