The George IV Joins the Craft Union Family: A Pub with Rich History and a Modern Touch

We are thrilled to announce that the George IV is now officially open, trading, and ready to welcome guests into the Craft Union family! Situated in the vibrant London Borough of Woolwich, this latest addition to our portfolio brings together rich history and modern enhancements, making it a fantastic new addition to the local community.

A glimpse into Woolwich's history

Woolwich, a district with deep historical roots, is the perfect home for this newly revamped pub. The name “Woolwich” traces its origins to an Anglo-Saxon settlement, possibly referring to a port used for trading, with sheep raised on the nearby marshes of Plumstead. The area boasts a rich maritime history, with the Woolwich Dockyard established in 1512 by none other than Henry VIII, where he had his flagship, the Henri Grace à Dieu, built. This naval legacy continued with a rope-making facility and later, the creation of the Royal Arsenal, the country’s largest munitions producer. Notably, during the reign of George IV, the Royal Arsenal and Woolwich’s artillery connection was significant, tying the area even closer to the royal legacy. Woolwich also has a special place in pop culture, with famous ex-footballer Ian Wright being born here.

Meet Sarah, an experienced operator

At the helm of the George IV is Sarah, a passionate and experienced operator with over 20 years in the pub industry. Having successfully managed the Earl of Chatham for the past two years with Craft Union and a decade of experience with another pub company, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge and local insight to this new venture. Local to the Woolwich area, Sarah is excited to be part of the community and looks forward to making the George IV a go-to destination for both locals and visitors alike.

A modern pub with fresh features

We have made a significant investment in the George IV, ensuring it has the right balance of charm and functionality to create a warm, inviting space for all. The exterior now features a striking, stiff key blue signage package that’s sure to catch the eye of passersby. The refreshed garden area, with its mix of new bench seating and café-style furniture, has been designed to make the most of the outdoor space. With added astroturf, festoon lighting, and the ability to trade all day, it’s a space that will draw guests in, no matter the time of day or year.

Inside, the pub has been given a fresh coat of paint, with new colour schemes, carpets, and comfortable seating to create a welcoming atmosphere throughout. One of the highlights is the newly installed Craft Union map wall, which adds a unique touch to the pub's interior. The pub also boasts three new darts throws – two Craft Union-style darts throws (one double and one single), offering a space for local dart teams and budding champions to practice and compete.

For sports enthusiasts, the George IV is fully equipped with a sports zone featuring a newly renovated pool table and viewing area. Whether you’re watching the big match or playing with friends, this space offers all the facilities to enjoy the action. The pub also offers a full Sky/TNT package with new TVs, ensuring that you’ll never miss any of the sporting excitement.

Functionality meets style

To improve operational efficiency, a new glass washroom has been created in the old kitchen space, allowing Sarah and her team to maximise sales during peak hours. The new upper back fitting at the bar enhances both the aesthetic and functionality of the space, creating a clean, modern feel that matches the pub's new look. The addition of a small bar service area in the sports zone ensures quick and easy service for those enjoying the action.

A perfect place for the community

With its two-room layout, the George IV offers a cosy lounge/snug feel at the front and a vibrant sports zone towards the rear. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a buzzing area to catch up with friends over a game, this pub has something for everyone.

Thanks to the full new AV install, along with the Craft Union sound leisure music system, the George IV is more than just a place to grab a drink, it’s a hub for entertainment, community, and good times.

We are incredibly proud to welcome Sarah and the George IV to the Craft Union family, and we’re excited for the opportunities that lie ahead. If you’re considering a career in the pub industry or looking for a new challenge, Craft Union offers an exceptional environment for growth. With the George IV’s rich history, modern updates, and Sarah’s wealth of experience, this pub is a prime example of the success you can be part of within our company.

At Craft Union, we’re always on the lookout for passionate and driven individuals from other pub companies or those seeking a career change. If you’re ready to bring your skills to a forward-thinking and supportive company that values innovation, community, and excellent pub culture, Craft Union is the place to be. Join our family and take your career to the next level!