A historic north London pub, dating back to the 1720s, has been given a new lease of life by three local residents after its unexpected closure last autumn. The Black Horse, situated at the junction of Wood Street and Union Street in Barnet, reopened its doors recently under the management of Simon Anderson, Martin Taylor, and Danny Daly, all of whom live within a five-minute walk of the establishment. The trio successfully secured the lease from Heineken-owned Star Pubs, transforming the premises from a building site into a functioning pub in just over two weeks.
The community's dedication to saving the former coaching inn was evident through a petition that attracted an impressive 4,000 signatures. This strong local support translated into a bustling reopening, with Martin Taylor, a director of Barnet Community Pubs, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming patronage. He noted that the pub nearly ran out of beer on its third weekend back in business, a testament to how much people missed the local fixture. The rapid transformation was made possible by the help of numerous local friends and connections who volunteered their time and skills.
Beyond its recent challenges, The Black Horse holds significant historical importance for Barnet. Simon Anderson highlighted Barnet's rich past concerning pubs and taverns, explaining its role as a crucial stop for stagecoaches entering London, often being the last point for a change of horses before reaching the capital. He recounted how Charles Dickens once described Barnet as the 'town of taverns,' and even based parts of 'Oliver Twist' in the area, with Oliver meeting the Artful Dodger on Barnet High Street. This deep historical connection underscores the pub's cultural value to the town.
The new operators view pubs as more than just commercial enterprises; they are integral to British society and local high streets. Anderson stressed the importance of investing in and supporting these establishments to ensure their continued existence. The sentiment was echoed by a customer who praised the initiative of three local individuals reopening the pub as a community hub, distinguishing it from a generic brand and emphasising its special role within Barnet.
The successful revival of The Black Horse serves as an inspiring example of community action preserving a cherished local landmark. The swift mobilisation of resources and the immediate outpouring of support from residents demonstrate a collective desire to maintain the unique character and social fabric that traditional pubs often provide. The initial success suggests a promising future for this historic venue under its new, community-focused management.