7 Suffolk pubs which have reopened their doors in 2023

While many sadly closed their doors this year, a number of watering holes have successfully reopened to the community.

Here are seven which were restored in 2023.

The pub in Kersey was one of the first to reopen (Image: Charlotte Bond)

The Bell, Kersey

Located in one of Suffolk's most idyllic villages, The Bell pub in Kersey reopened in January. 

The family and dog-friendly pub was taken over Dan Hibble, who has previously worked at a number of other pubs in Suffolk. 

The White Horse reopened in July after being left shut for months (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

The White Horse, Badingham 

The White Horse in Badingham was restored to its former glory in July after it was left shut for months. 

Now owned by Moss & Co, operations manager Adam Moss said he had never heard "so many positive comments" after it opened.

The George in Cavendish was given a new lease of life in 2023 (Image: Jordan Adams)

The George, Cavendish

After closing at the start of 2023, The George in Cavendish reopened in October.

Spencer Martin, Carl Cooper, Spencer Hewitt and Jordan Adams took on the pub, and now offer delicious gourmet burgers. 

Mr Hewitt said: "We want to rescue these beautiful pubs in amazing villages." 

Stephen and Julie Penney returned to the pub in April (Image: Charlotte Bond)

The Swan, Monks Eleigh

Following a sudden closure in January, The Swan in Monks Eleigh returned to its former life by April. 

Owners Stephen and Julie Penney brought their travel plans to a halt in order to reopen the mid Suffolk establishment.

The Bunbury Arms is popular for its carveries (Image: Newsquest)

The Bunbury Arms, Great Barton

The Bunbury Arms in Great Barton reopened its doors earlier this year following a sudden closure. 

Best-known for its carveries, Greene King said they were "searching for the right partner" to take on the pub.

The Red Lion in Debenham reopened its doors after 25 years in November (Image: Charlotte Bond)

The Red Lion, Debenham

Having been shut for 25 years, The Red Lion in Debenham celebrated a historic opening in November. 

Leonora Faggionato purchased the pub, which was previously used as a house after it closed in 1998, before extensive renovations were carried out.

Dan, Tina and Kazia, the team behind The Cross Keys. (Image: Tina Powick)

The Cross Keys, Henley

The Cross Keys in Henley reopened in June after being closed for nine years. 

Dan and Tina Powick spent 15 months renovating the venue, which is also being used as a café and community hub. 

It had previously been run by Ipswich Town legend Kevin Beattie.