Urban Pubs and Bars saves George and Dragon pub in Wanstead

The historic George and Dragon pub in Wanstead is set to reopen in the new year after being saved from closure by Urban Pubs and Bars.

The pub, originally named The George and Dragon but recently trading as The George, faced a permanent shutdown when its previous operators closed the doors.

Urban Pubs and Bars has pledged to invest £1.3m in a refurbishment programme that will secure the pub’s future.

With the prospect of its site being sold to property developers, a petition to save the pub was launched and spearheaded by local Councillor Paul Donovan.

The campaign to protect the pub gathered 3,589 signatures and was further supported by letters from local MP Calvin Bailey MBE to both outgoing operators Wetherspoons and the pub’s freeholders.

Following extensive refurbishment of the interiors and garden space, The George and Dragon is expected to reopen in mid-January 2025.

The reopening will create 40 full-time and 20 part-time roles, including the return of over a dozen former staff members.

Cllr Paul Donovan said: “It is great news that Urban Pubs and Bars have stepped in to save the George, returning the pub to its original name. So many pubs are going under across the country, to be able to save such an iconic establishment is a real achievement.

“The hope of the campaign is that the new owners will provide good quality, reasonably priced food and drink for all – in these cash strapped times. Early signs are certainly encouraging – roll on the January opening.”

Chris Hill, managing director of Urban Pubs and Bars, added: “Saving The George and Dragon is exactly what Urban Pubs and Bars is about—celebrating London’s pub culture, supporting local communities, and preserving historic venues. We’re incredibly proud to reopen this iconic site, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back.

“The community’s dedication to saving The George and Dragon has been truly inspiring. We’re thrilled to not only preserve this historic pub but to celebrate its legacy with the people who fought so hard to keep it. We look forward to engaging further with the community, supporting local events, and building on the traditions of this remarkable venue.”