New owners of historic Kenilworth pub raring to re-open... again

Marc and Jonathan at The Virgins and Castle in Kenilworth. The pub is part of their business, called Caviar & Chips, which also creates bespoke menus for wedding receptions and corporate events

Marc Hornby and Jonathan Carter-Morris took over The Virgins and Castle in High Street and launched their ownership with a ‘Great Big Pub Warming’ party.

But the Everards pub, along with every other pub in the country, was soon instructed by the Government to close amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

It is a difficult time for all independent businesses, but this pair remain positive and say they can’t wait to throw another ‘ great big opening party’ again soon.

“It is disappointing after all the hard work the team put in to getting us ready to open and the plans we had in place,” said Marc. “But our primary aim is to get through this period of uncertainty and come out the other side, all together, and pick up where we left off with our fantastic opening weekend.”

The 16th century pub quickly switched on a delivery service for people who had to cancel their Mother’s Day bookings, so that mums in Kenilworth could still enjoy their celebratory Sunday roast.

Now the latest idea from the pub is to keep its customers and community together in the virtual world by entertaining them as they would if they stepped inside the pub.

Every Tuesday from 7.30pm, people can join The Virgins and Castle for the town’s “Oldest Pub” quiz from the comfort of their own homes. Visit The Virgins and Castle Facebook page, where pub manager Andy Lock is the quiz master.

“We have been overwhelmed by the fantastic messages of support we have received from guests, residents of Kenilworth, visitors, friends and family, which has helped us to stay positive, “ added Jonathan.

“Unfortunately, we don’t know how long this will last, but we will come through it.”