12th April: Spotlight on London’s The Prince

After Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed his four step plan for easing England’s lockdown restrictions, the 12th April quickly became a date to remember for the British public. The date spells joy and relief at the prospect of some light at the end of the tunnel. A hope to hold onto with the proposed re-opening of non-essential shops, hairdressers, gyms, pubs and restaurants outside and outdoor attractions.

Although we have all been experiencing the same storm of Covid-19, we’ve individually faced different challenges and hurdles dependent on personal circumstances. But despite our separate struggles, lack of social contact is something we’ve all experienced. Following government guidelines and sticking to lockdown regulations has meant that we’ve been unable to physically connect with friends and family.

The pandemic may have brought us together as a society through the collective experience of its impact on our lifestyles and functioning, but it’s distanced us physically when we have had to remain within our own four walls. A survey carried out in May 2020 found that around two thirds of the British missed seeing their friends and family the most during the first lockdown period, while missing going to restaurants and pubs followed second at 38%. Since we’re now well into our third lockdown, it’s inevitable that the desire to come together again with those we love continues.

With the 12th of April in sight, friends and family patiently wait to be in one another’s company again. Alongside sharing time with those we love, it’ll be a time of rejoicing as a community. The countdown has begun until restrictions ease slightly and we can socialise again. Who knew we’d miss talking to someone new at a bar or complimenting a strangers outfit as you cross paths in the toilet so much?

We’re all looking forward to returning to our local, but after so long inside our homes, returning to freedom brings the opportunity to explore what London has to offer. One particular location that’s sparked excitement after announcing its reopening is West London’s pub and restaurant The Prince. Owned by the company Incipio, with sister venues including Pergola, Lost in Brixton and Bloom, it’s no wonder it’s being so widely discussed.

The popular venue is set to open its doors again on the 12^th April and is already taking bookings. Known for having the biggest beer garden in the whole of London, its magical setting allows for the perfect location to meet with others whilst we remain restricted to socialising outdoors.

Its beautiful venue is decorated with hanging flowers, wooden décor and dazzling lights. One street, three bars, four restaurants and a huge woodland garden, all connected together to create one glorious spectacle where you can sit on wooden benches and enjoy food and drink from around the world.

Located in the heart of West London’s Hammersmith, it’s a spot known for its delicious food and wide selection of drinks, including some imaginative cocktails. Its delectable menu caters to every taste, with options including Filth&Co’s burgers, Boludo’s Latin American and Rudie’s Jamaican Jerk Shack. It’s bound to be a popular spot this summer, and if even if the sun decides not to show, its retractable roof and installed heating means you’ll be comfortable whatever the weather and safe in its Covid-secure atmosphere.

Opening hours will be 12-11pm Sunday to Tuesday and 12-11:30pm Wednesday to Saturday. With many booking in advance to ensure they have a spot for their first post-lockdown beverage, it’s booking up fast.

The countdown begins until we can cheers to reuniting with our nearest and dearest and get back to socialising as a community. The euphoria and celebration to come will be like no other.

Danielle Saunders

Featured image courtesy of Helena Lopes via Pexels. Image licence found here. No changes were made to this image.