6 pubs in Salisbury that opened as new businesses in 2023

Salisbury is lucky to have a great selection of independent pubs but 2023 saw some given a new lease of life, opening under new owners, while others were transformed entirely.

Anchor and Hope

The Anchor and Hope, on Winchester Street, was taken over by the landlord of the Royal George in Bedwin Street, Reece Brown, and opened on July 7.

It underwent a complete makeover, revamping the 17th-century building that was "falling apart" into a 1980s-inspired boozer.

Bar manager Harriet Kelly with landlord Reece Brown, 25, inside the Anchor and Hope. (Image: Newsquest)

Elai

South Indian restaurant Elai, at Mill Stream Approach, replaced the Boathouse on August 2.

The business expanded following success at Unni Bala and Nidhin Satheesan's first location in Basingstoke.

Read our review of the restaurant here.

Elai. (Image: Newsquest)

Rude Giant Beer House

Rude Giant replaced independent music venue Brown Street and opened its doors for the first time on Wednesday, October 4, as a "destination bar and dining space".

The launch marked an exciting new chapter for the Wylye-based brewery being its first permanent venue.

Rude Giant Beer House. (Image: Newsquest)

Coach and Horses

The Coach and Horses, in Winchester Street, re-opened on October 6 after it closed since before the pandemic.

The building dates back to the late 15th or early 16th century and was a former coaching inn. 

Coach and Horses. (Image: Spencer Mulholland)

Hixon

Hixon opened on High Street in April, taking over the space left vacant by Wilding following a nine-week refurbishment. 

The former restaurant closed just before Christmas due to rising costs.

Owners the Immersive group said the restaurant was transformed into “a carefully curated restaurant and bar space offering an exquisite menu of British meats accompanied by indulgent house-made sides, desserts, extensive drinks menu and awe-inspiring interior."

Read our full review of Hixon here.

Hixon chophouse. (Image: Newsquest)

Gurkha Kitchen

Gurkha Kitchen, on South Western Road, opened on December 11 to replace Kathmandu Kitchen.

Having run Everest Brasserie together for four years, Rajan and Pasand decided it was time for expansion and that the empty location on South Western Road was suitable.

Gurkha Kitchen. (Image: Spencer Mulholland)