An historic pub reopened last week after a £200,000 refurbishment.

The Kings Head in Kings Head Hill, Chingford, reopened on Friday after owners the Stonegate Pub Company spent the money on its first facelift in four years.

The public house, built in the 1880s, now boasts 10 hand-pumped ales brewed within a 20-mile radius as well as others from further afield, an increase from the six it used to have on offer.

The building has also been painted a bright white with black window sills, instead of the cream coating it used to have.

Manager Linzi Price said:  “The team and I are really excited about showcasing our new pub. We are proud of the Kings Head and the role that it plays within our community and the investment can only enhance our customers’ experience.”

Her assistant, Luke Briggs, added: “The reaction’s been really positive. A lot of people were concerned it would change too much but they really like what we’ve done with the place.”

He said the pub looks better inside now, with a new oak floor and bar, as well as new furnishings and softer lighting.

He said: “It’s changed, but for the better. It’s a lot lighter and fresher now.”

The pub is now hiring for three new positions and Miss Price plans to make a ‘Meet the Brewer’ session a regular feature.

The session would consist of a real ale brewer visiting the pub to promote their beer, explaining how it is made.