Actor Daniel Craig is entering the London hospitality scene. The former James Bond star has partnered with a group of industry experts to acquire The Horseshoe, a historic pub in Clerkenwell established in 1748. His partners include Soho House founder Nick Jones, restaurateur Charlie Carroll, and Bad Belze creative director Justin O’Shea.
A Personal Connection to the Trade
Although this is Craig’s first professional venture into pub ownership, the industry is part of his family history. In an interview with The Times, Craig explained that his parents and grandparents were publicans. He spent his childhood observing how a local pub serves as a community hub, an experience that shaped his appreciation for the social role of neighborhood venues.
Revitalizing a London Staple
The Horseshoe, managed by Pauline and Richard Tucker for 36 years, closed on October 8, 2026. The new owners plan to refurbish the site while preserving its identity as a traditional “boozer.”
Operational Plans
- Ground Floor: Will remain a classic pub serving bar snacks and maintaining a traditional atmosphere.
- Upper Levels: The team will remodel the rooms into a formal dining space.
- Amenities: The project will retain the existing dart boards, the upstairs darts room, and the outdoor beer garden.
- Beverage Program: The pub will serve Bad Belze, the lager brand recently launched by Craig and O’Shea.
Expertise Behind the Bar
The project combines significant hospitality experience. Charlie Carroll, founder of the Flat Iron steakhouse chain and the acclaimed Soho pub The Devonshire, will oversee the food menu. Nick Jones brings his expertise from the Soho House global network. The team intends to navigate the challenging economic climate for UK pubs by focusing on the “strong basics” that define successful historic venues.
What Comes Next?
While the pub is closed for the transition, a reopening date has not been finalized. The renovation is expected to take approximately one year, with the venue projected to welcome patrons back in late 2027. This project follows a trend of high-profile figures, such as Jeremy Clarkson and James Blunt, investing in the preservation and operation of traditional British public houses.
