First look: Heartwood Collection launches debut pub with rooms

The Heartwood Collection has opened the White Horse in Dorking as its first pub with rooms following a multi-million-pound refurbishment.

It marks the start of the start of a major expansion into the overnight accommodation sector for the group, which rebranded from Brasserie Bar Co last year.

A further four pubs are set to open this year and Heartwood has plans to grow to over 60 sites and more than 500 bedrooms by 2027.

The Grade II-listed White Horse, which was acquired by Heartwood at the end of last year, has been reconfigured to include a pub at the front of the building, a dining room for over 100 covers, and a sheltered courtyard with extra seating.

Upstairs, 56 bedrooms have been renovated and range from smaller ‘Snug' rooms to ‘Really Fancy' suites. Room rates start from £100 a night and feature complimentary baked treats and rainfall showers, while higher-end rooms include Illy coffee machines, towelling bath robes and freestanding baths.

Several rooms are dog-friendly, and a dog shower is available to wash muddy paws in the courtyard.

Families are catered for with features including trundle beds, interconnecting rooms and kids activity packs.

The White Horse building dates to the 13th century and is believed to be where Charles Dickens wrote part of his novel The Pickwick Papers, while Jane Austen also visited.

Richard Ferrier, managing director of the Heartwood Collection, said: "This is a hugely significant moment for Heartwood Collection with the opening of its first pub with rooms and marks the start of an intensive growth period in 2024 and beyond."

Heartwood Collection operates 22 Heartwood Inns pubs and 14 Brasserie Blanc restaurants across the UK.

It has been backed by private equity firm Alchemy Partners since 2022 and secured £100m funding towards its expansion last year.