It’s been a team effort for the Thompson family to transform Shepherd Neame’s 600-year-old Woolpack Inn at Chilham into a stylish, welcoming venue.
Molly, Sharon, Gordon, and Leanne behind the bar with sheriff of Canterbury, Tom Mellish
Gordon and Sharon Thompson have put four decades of hospitality experience into the project. But they couldn’t have done it without their grown-up children and their partners, who have all rolled up their sleeves to tackle the work alongside them. The family already run three other Shepherd Neame pubs and hotels between them.
A grand re-opening was attended by invited guests, including the Sheriff of Canterbury, Cllr Tom Mellish, and locals.
The two-month renovation has seen the beautiful building’s period features enhanced. The dark bar and dining room are gleaming, and a bespoke reception desk, in-keeping with the character of the building, has been introduced.
Sharon said: “It’s all about the family — we really couldn’t do any of it without them all. Gordon and I have a wealth of experience, which married with the youth and vigour from our children and their partners is why we are so successful.
“Over the years, the many businesses we have owned and refurbished has brought us to this point — taking on The Woolpack. Our expectations are very high of the finished results, but with our experience coming together, we are confident this is the best that we have done.”
