UPDATED: Staff and suppliers of a former top Island pub have been left in shock at it’s sudden closure today (Tuesday), Island Echo can reveal.
The White Horse Inn, Whitwell has been considered by many Islanders in the past as one of the best pub-grub stops on the Isle of Wight, however the pub’s owners have called time and closed the doors owing thousands of pounds to both local Island businesses and staff, who were only told about the decision last night.
The rural establishment, said to be the Island’s oldest pub having been built in 1454, has been run by Adam & Angela Arnold since 2009 and most recently under the name of Arnold Pub Management Limited – who have overdue accounts yet to be filed with Companies House. However, it is understood the pair have closed the establishment with no notice and are rumoured to have returned to Stoke on the mainland.
Island Echo understands that furnishings and fittings were being removed from the property in the heart of Whitwell village this morning and tonight the pub is closed with both Mr and Mrs Arnold said to be away from their nearby home.
UPDATE THURSDAY: The White Horse Inn is set to reopen next month, Island Echo can reveal.
Following the sudden closure on Tuesday, it has been confirmed that the Island’s oldest pub will reopen under new management on Sunday 1st February at 12 noon.
The identity of the new management team is currently unknown.
The White Horse Inn received a Certificate of Excellence last year from Trip Advisor and is rated 4.5/5 stars on the popular review website.
