The 1790’s saw the birth of the Grand Union Canal in Birstall and the White Horse was created as an alehouse to serve the canal traffic and workers. Horray!! 

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the White Horses gardens were a coal wharf where barges brought their loads to trade.  The Landlord was listed as a coal merchant in trade directories.

The pub was modernised and rebuilt in the 1920’s to how you see it today. 

The current owners

We are local people from Birstall who each bring a little something to the party. 

First, there is Charlotte who having worked at The White Horse in the early 90’s is responsible for the marketing side of the business. Then there is Ady who having spent most of his time from a young age drinking in the White Horse was eager to re-live his youth before time runs out. Finally, there is Jim. With over 17 years experience working both in the kitchen and behind the bar, he is enjoying the chance to be his own boss. A mention also has to go out to Chris our new chef who joined the team in May.

Did you know?

• We are an award winning pub, having just won the Trust Inns best retailer as well as their prestigious Food and Drink Excellence award.
• We always have a guest ale amongst our fine selection
• Dogs are welcomed in the Bar area
• We have papers delivered everyday for you to read over a pint
• We have a Darts team
• We have outside areas which are heated so you can spend some time in our lovely garden even if its cold.
• We have full disabled access
• James is a member of the British Institute of Inn keeping – you have to be invited you know!
• We have a fountain!
• The pub company is called The Chocolate Dogs, named after our chocolate Labradors.  Jenny and Ady have Samson and James and Charlotte have Florence.