Leicester’s much-loved Old Horse has thrown open its doors once again following a £1 million transformation, and it’s not just a fresh lick of paint we’re talking about.

The independent hospitality team behind some of Leicester’s best-known pubs, Beautiful Pubs Collective, has teamed up with Everards of Leicestershire to completely reimagine the landmark venue, creating what could become one of the city’s go-to spots for food, drinks and sunshine-filled afternoons.

Sitting proudly on the edge of Victoria Park, The Old Horse has spent the last 18 months undergoing an extensive refurbishment designed to bring the historic pub firmly into the present while keeping hold of the character locals know and love.

Inside, visitors will find a refreshed main bar complete with traditional beer dispense, retro Guinness taps and an expanded cider selection. There’s also a brand-new open pizza kitchen, giving diners a front-row seat to the action.

The food offering has had a rethink too. Alongside its core menu, The Old Horse is introducing a range of pub toasties designed for those looking for a quick bite, making the venue just as appealing for a casual lunch as it is for an evening meal.

But it’s the outdoor space that’s likely to steal the show.

Already famous for having Leicester’s largest pub garden, The Old Horse has doubled down on its alfresco appeal. The sprawling garden now features a dedicated outdoor bar to help keep queues to a minimum during busy periods, while a German-inspired beer garden kitchen and a whipped Jersey-style ice cream kiosk add a festival-like feel to the space.

It’s a move that reflects the growing trend for pubs to become all-day destinations, offering everything from morning coffee stops to late-evening drinks.

“This project represents one of our most ambitious redevelopments to date,” says Sam Hagger, founder of Beautiful Pubs Collective.

“We worked closely with Everards to strike the right balance between the heritage of this much-loved pub and the experience guests expect today. We’re excited to welcome both new and returning visitors as The Old Horse takes its place as a major destination for Leicester this summer and beyond.”

The reopening marks the latest chapter for Beautiful Pubs Collective, which also operates The Forge, The Rutland & Derby and Knight & Garter. Each venue has its own distinct identity, but all share the group’s commitment to creating welcoming community-focused pubs with quality food, drink and hospitality at their heart.

For Leicester locals, The Old Horse’s return means one thing: another excuse to gather friends, grab a pizza and make the most of one of the city’s best beer gardens.