The Walmer Castle on Notting Hill’s Ledbury Road has had plenty of owners in its 181 years – including David Beckham and Guy Ritchie, and most recently the team behind The Surprise in Chelsea. Now, it’s entering its latest phase under new ownership: the pub has been acquired by BNF Hospitality, the hospitality arm of investment fund BNF Capital. And it’s appointed one of the capital’s buzziest restaurant and pub groups to run it: Public House Group.
In a statement released to press today, October 19, Public House said it would continue to operate the pub with the same menu, team and drinks selection. The boozer last underwent a renovation in 2023, bringing in rich timber panelling and joinery, vibrant patterns and antiques sourced nearby.
Public House Group – which is also behind The Pelican, Canteen and The Hart among other pubs and restaurants – has had a mega year. In early spring it opened Cece’s, an Italian restaurant in Notting Hill and in September it launched The Horses, a seafood-focused pub in Clerkenwell.
