Business Details
12 Years
experience
Award-Winning Pub & Restaurant in Welwyn
The White Hart in Welwyn is a family-run business that has grown significantly since 2014. As part of the Bain & Bridges group, we are owned and operated by brothers Tom and James Bainbridge, who took over the establishment in 2016. With over 30 years of combined experience in the hospitality industry, we ensure our guests receive first-class service and hospitality. Our 17th-century coaching inn boasts a 1 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant, an extensive bar offering, and 13 comfortable bedrooms, including boutique and stable rooms. The venue also features a newly refurbished function room, The Court Room, ideal for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate events.Our menu showcases modern British seasonal dishes, celebrating local ingredients sourced from some of the country's finest suppliers. The kitchen is led by Head Chef Charlie Ongley-Knight and Executive Chef Tom Bainbridge, who also oversees our sister pub, The Tilbury. Our service team, trained by James, delivers high-quality, welcoming, and knowledgeable service, reflecting our commitment to excellence. The bar area offers cosy nooks with a selection of bar snacks, sandwiches, real ales, cocktails, and expertly picked wines. We also welcome well-behaved dogs in the bar area, ensuring a friendly and inclusive environment for all our guests.
Services
Restaurant
Bar
Accommodation
Event Hire
Catering
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- We are a family-run business with over 30 years of combined hospitality experience.
- Our 1 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant showcases modern British seasonal cuisine.
- We offer a newly refurbished function room for weddings and corporate events.
- Our team delivers high-quality, welcoming, and knowledgeable service.
- We welcome well-behaved dogs in our bar area, ensuring an inclusive environment.
Associations and certifications
- AA Rosette
What people say
Unbelievable food
Amazing
Lovely staff
Home from home
Services
Restaurant
Our restaurant offers a modern British seasonal menu, celebrating local ingredients sourced from some of the country's finest suppliers. The kitchen is led by Head Chef Charlie Ongley-Knight and Executive Chef Tom Bainbridge, ensuring high-quality dishes that blend traditional and creative pub classics. Guests can enjoy meals in a historic setting with a focus on exceptional culinary experiences.
Bar
The bar area provides a selection of bar snacks, sandwiches, real ales, cocktails, and expertly picked wines. With cosy nooks and friendly bar chat, it is the perfect spot for a quick post-work drink or a relaxed evening with friends. The bar is curated by owners James and Tom, who are Negroni connoisseurs.
Accommodation
We offer 13 comfortable bedrooms, including three boutique rooms with whirlpool baths and four converted stable rooms. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms, 100% cotton linen bedding, smart TVs, and tea and coffee facilities. Accommodation is ideal for business travelers, wedding guests, and those seeking a countryside retreat.
Event Hire
The Court Room, a newly refurbished function space, is perfect for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate events. It features a private entrance, toilet facilities, and its own bar. The venue benefits from easy access to London and on-site accommodation, making it ideal for both intimate and large gatherings.
Catering
Our catering service provides bespoke menus for events, including weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. Led by owners Tom and James, we work closely with clients to create seasonal menus that reflect their preferences. The service includes expert coordination and high-quality food delivery.
People
Tom Bainbridge
Owner & Executive Chef
Tom Bainbridge, co-owner and Executive Chef, brings extensive culinary expertise to The White Hart. With a background in Michelin-starred kitchens, he oversees the menu and ensures exceptional dining experiences.
James Bainbridge
Owner
James Bainbridge, co-owner, has over 30 years of combined hospitality experience. He trains the service team to deliver high-quality, welcoming, and knowledgeable service, ensuring a memorable guest experience.
Charlie Ongley-Knight
Head Chef
Charlie Ongley-Knight, Head Chef, leads the kitchen at The White Hart. He focuses on modern British seasonal cuisine, using local ingredients to create innovative and traditional dishes.
Ellen Davies
Events & Group Manager
Ellen Davies manages events and group bookings at The White Hart. She ensures seamless planning and execution for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate functions in the venue's function room.
April Pledger
General Manager
April Pledger serves as the General Manager at The White Hart, overseeing daily operations and ensuring the highest standards of hospitality and service are maintained across the venue.
Questions
What are the opening hours for The White Hart?
We are open Monday-Tuesday 5pm-10pm, Wednesday 6pm-9pm, Thursday-Saturday 12pm-2:30pm & 6pm-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-5pm.
Does The White Hart offer accommodation?
Yes, we have 13 comfortable bedrooms, including boutique rooms, main house rooms, and stable rooms, all with en-suite facilities and breakfast included.
Can I book The Court Room for events?
Yes, The Court Room is available for weddings, private celebrations, and corporate events. Enquire with our team for availability and details.
Is The White Hart dog-friendly?
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome in the bar area, provided they are clean and kept on a lead.
What awards has The White Hart received?
We have received a 1 AA Rosette, 4 AA Star Inn rating, and recognition at The National Pub & Bar Awards.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide bespoke catering for events, including weddings and corporate functions, with menus tailored to your preferences.