First Hippo Inns pub opens in Forest Hill

07-Oct-2015 - Last updated on 26-Apr-2021 at 17:04 GMT

The Signal is the first pub to open under the Hippo Inns brand

Related tags Beer Public house Enterprise inns

The first pub from the Enterprise Inns and Rupert Clevely joint venture Hippo Inns will open in Forest Hill in South London today.

The Signal will re-open on the former site of The Hob following a major refurbishment of the site and is the first of five Enterprise said it had identified for the Hippo brand.

Hippo, which will focus on developing food-led and craft beer pubs within communities in London, will be led by Geronimo Inns founder Clevely and is the first partnership from Enterprise's Managed Expert business.

Clevely said: "We’re delighted to be working with Enterprise. This is a unique opportunity for both parties. I have selected a great team and we look forward to building a terrific business together.”

The Signal will serve craft beers, ales and cocktails as well as a 20-strong wine list created by Master of Wine John Clevely. Food will also be served from the rotisserie and grill.

Enterprise Inns CEO Simon Townsend said: “This is an exciting partnership for Enterprise. Rupert is one of the country’s leading managed house operators with a strong pedigree in developing great pubs at the heart of communities.

"These are early days in our managed house ambitions at Enterprise but the opening of The Signal represents a significant milestone as we continue to deliver on our plans.”

Hippo Inns is recruiting for staff at Forest Hill and new venues. To find out about all the roles click here.