White Horse crowned Venue of the Year
03/12/2025
The pub’s team received their award at the national Business Buzz Awards last week
A Banbury pub has been crowned the Venue of the Year at the national Business Buzz Awards.
The White Horse on North Bar was announced as the winner last Thursday (November 27) at an event in Cranfield.
The award recognises the very best hosting venue across its UK-wide networking organisation. The judges highlighted The White Horse’s outstanding customer experience, personal touches, and deep-rooted community ethos. They praised everything from the warm welcome and friendly hosting to the pub’s quirky character, award-winning beer offering, and even the famous post it notes in the bathrooms.
Landlords Ken and Eileen Thompson closed the pub for the evening to attend the ceremony, accompanied by managers Loulabelle Hamilton and Louise French. They were honoured for their outstanding service, community support, and exceptional hospitality.
Ken and Eileen took over the pub in 2015, creating a venue known for its warm welcome, award-winning real ales, thriving courtyard garden, and its reputation as “a village pub in the town”. The White Horse has featured in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide and won multiple cellar quality and garden awards.
Ken said: “This award means the world to us. The pub trade has had some incredibly tough years since Covid, and personally it’s been a challenging time too. But we’ve always focused on what matters, creating a place where people feel welcome, where the beer is excellent, and where the community feels at home.
“Winning Venue of the Year shows that all the little things we do, from the atmosphere to the ale to the conversations at the bar, really do make a difference. We’re proud, grateful and absolutely thrilled.”
Lisa Marie Mallier, Regional Lead for Business Buzz Oxfordshire and Host of Banbury Buzz, added: “I couldn’t be prouder of Ken, Eileen and the whole White Horse team. They always go above and beyond for our business community. Whether it’s tailoring refreshments, helping with themed events, or making sure new visitors feel instantly at home, they play a huge role in making Banbury Buzz what it is. This award is incredibly well deserved.”
The White Horse beat shortlisted venues from across the country, including The Beech House in Solihull, which was awarded Highly Commended in the category.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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