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A village pub in West Walton, Norfolk, is strengthening its role as a vital community hub with the launch of a new children’s play area and family‑friendly seating space.
Publicans Dan and Claire Smethurst took over the King of Hearts in September 2025 with the aim to make it a real hub for the local community. It has already become a thriving centre of the village and a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike.
The addition of a dedicated play area within its garden has created a welcoming space where families can come together, connect and socialise.
The new play area is safely enclosed within a fenced section of the garden, allowing children to play freely while parents relax nearby in a purpose‑built seating area.
The area is designed with local families in mind, and the space responds to a clear need in the village and surrounding rural areas, where there are few opportunities for young families to meet and spend time together.
With expert guidance and access to a grant from Pub is The Hub, supported by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the children’s play area and adult seating space has further strengthened the King of Hearts as the hub of its local community.
The project has been supported by the DBT as part of its Hospitality Support Fund, which aims to strengthen rural communities by helping pubs diversify and remain sustainable community assets.
Dan said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming children and families into our garden and seeing people come together. In a rural area like this, a space like this can be a real lifeline for families who might otherwise feel isolated.”
Claire said: “The support we’ve received from local residents since reopening the pub has been incredible. This play area will give families even more of a reason to visit, stay longer and really connect with one another.”
Pub is The Hub regional advisor Terry Stork added: “The King of Hearts is clearly at the heart of its community. Facilities like this children’s play area are greatly needed locally and will play a big part in bringing families together and strengthening village life.”
Kate Dearden, Minister Employment Rights and Consumer Protection, said: “Rural pubs like the King of Hearts are vital to their communities. Whether it’s by creating jobs or providing families, like those in West Walton, with a place to come together, and socialise.
“This is exactly why we are working to secure the future of rural pubs with our Hospitality Support Fund. As of 1 April, every pub is now also getting 15% off its new business rates bill on top of the £4.3bn support package announced at Budget.”
Pub & Bar News is sponsored by The Kitchen Porters Club
