Pepper's Ghost pub in High Road Leyton shuts for revamp

Pepper's Ghost in High Road shuts today (January 30) to allow for the start of a £250,000 project. 

The investment has been undertaken by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and Leyton resident Simon Welch, who lives just five minutes from the boozer. 

Simon is working alongside Star Pubs & Bars (Image: Matt Grayson Photography / Star Pubs & Bars)

The project will see the pub - which dates to the 1800s - undergo a dramatic change back to its old roots, including the name reverting to the original The Prince of Wales. 

Simon, who helps run another two pubs in Upper Clapton, said: “It’s a beautiful old building, it’s been sad to see it lose its way. The area is crying out for a great quality local. I want to make The Prince of Wales somewhere residents are proud of – a community hub that is an asset to Leyton.

"The atmosphere will be relaxed so that everyone feels at home – whether coming in a group or on their own."

Historic features such as the old timber floors, ornate iron columns and banquette seating will be retained and restored. 

Pictures detailing the history of the pub and Leyton will feature on the walls, which will be painted in heritage colours. 

Despite the nod to the past, the refurbishment will bring new features to Pepper's Ghost, including a 70-seater rear garden.

A CGI image of what the project is expected to look like once complete. (Image: Star Pubs & Bars)

The project is expected to create an additional eight jobs for the community. 

Michael Lee, Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager for east London, said: “We’re delighted to be joining forces with Simon to revitalise such a well-known Leyton pub.

"As a local resident he is passionate about creating a great pub for the town and knows just what people want.

"Having helped to turn round two other nearby pubs and with more than 20 years in the hospitality trade, he’s just the person for the job.”

The pub is expected to reopen in late March.