A nautical theme marked the official launch event for Shepherd Neame’s coastal pub The Duke of Cumberland, in Whitstable.
Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame with Deidre Wells, OBE, chief executive of Visit Kent (centre) and Duke of Cumberland general manager, Tina Kennedy
Volunteers from the town’s RNLI and Coastwatch turned out in force to celebrate the re-opening of the pub, following a 14-week, £1.8m refurbishment.
To mark the occasion, both organisations received donations of £1,000 from Shepherd Neame’s chief executive, Jonathan Neame. The first pint was pulled by Visit Kent’s chief executive, Deidre Wells OBE.
Dating back to 1867, the pub has been completely refurbished, with care taken to retain and restore its original features. These include a grade II listed bar. Shepherd Neame has owned the pub since 1898.
Shepherd Neame chief executive, Jonathan Neame, presents £1,000 cheques to Bob Smith (left), Whitstable Coastwatch station manager, and Pete Fenton, Whitstable RNLI’s fundraising chair
“The Duke of Cumberland has been part of our estate for almost its whole life — more than 120 years — and is a treasured jewel in our coastal crown,” said Jonathan Neame.
“So it was essential for us to ensure that this refurbishment preserved its unique heritage, while also invigorating it with a contemporary feel.
“We are proud to be part of Whitstable’s thriving community, and hope that the impressive work that has been carried out here will ensure The Duke of Cumberland continues to serve customers for the next century and beyond.”
