A popular Surrey pub and hotel with lakeside views and a “distinctly regal flavour” has closed for a seven-figure refurbishment ahead of summer 2024. This is set to bring an improved beer garden, an outside dining and bar area, a new lobby, and a covered veranda, according to plans submitted to Runnymede Borough Council (RBC).
The Wheatsheaf Hotel on London Road in Virginia Water is highly regarded and ranked the second-best restaurant in the area with a four-star rating and a Traveller’s Choice award on Tripadvisor, based on more than 1,100 reviews. It is also deemed “exceptional” and “pleasant” on Booking.com by those who have stayed.
The venue is described by owners - Greene King-owned Chef and Brewer - as being in a “truly idyllic” location thanks to views that look out across Virginia Water Lake and the surrounding Windsor Great Park. It has a menu “cooked with skill and flair” and special dishes that change on a monthly basis.
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More than two months of work have now started, with the pub expected to reopen in mid-June. Chef and Brewer confirmed online: “We are temporarily closed for an exciting refurbishment. Join us when we re-open on 17th June.”
A planning application granted by RBC details a proposed new single-storey entrance lobby to the rear of the building, a larger patio, timber garden arches, and a metal and glass veranda. Landscaping and garden alterations are also planned, including an outdoor bar.
Internal work is understood to be planned with renovations to hotel rooms. A function room could be demolished to make way for a new delivery driveway and compound. The Wheatsheaf Hotel currently has disabled facilities, EV charging, and a car park.
Chef and Brewer described The Wheatsheaf Hotel as a beautiful 17th-century pub restaurant in a picturesque lakeside location with a warm atmosphere and excellent food. The company said: “Whether refuelling after a morning's walk around the Virginia Water Lake or a round of golf at Wentworth or Sunningdale, a satisfying Sunday roast at The Wheatsheaf is not to be missed.
“So gather all the family together for a delicious meal in our traditional pub restaurant, or if the weather's fine, dine al fresco and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake.” It added: “Our menu is carefully selected to offer a mouth-watering selection of traditional and seasonal dishes, all created with high-quality, fresh produce.”
A recruitment drive at the pub and hotel comes as part of the investment with roles from chefs to housekeepers listed online. It is thought this could triple the current size of the team.
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