A popular pub close to Trafalgar Square and 10 Downing Street has reopened after a revamp.

The Silver Cross, in Whitehall, was closed throughout February while the six figure renovation was carried out.

It reopened on March 1 with a new green paint job, comfy booth seating, and atmospheric lighting to create a modern and welcoming atmosphere for punters.

A new open plan layout is split between restaurant, bar with sports screens, and function space -  with wall hangings which showcase local points of interest as well as the history of Whitehall.

Ham & High: The Silver Cross stands on the site of The Garter an establishment that was once licensed as a brothel by King Charles I who lived in nearby Whitehall PalaceThe Silver Cross stands on the site of The Garter an establishment that was once licensed as a brothel by King Charles I who lived in nearby Whitehall Palace (Image: Greene King)

The Silver Cross itself has a fascinating history. It was first licensed as a pub in 1674, but before that the venue known as 'The Garter' was a brothel, licensed by King Charles I - who lived nearby.

The BBC has claimed that because the Royal licence was never officially revoked, the Silver Cross Tavern remains the UK's only legal, if non-operative brothel.

However the tavern has undergone a number of rebuilds over the centuries, with the current building with its wagon vaulted ceiling dating back to 1900. The name is thought to relate to the Canada Memorial Cross, created after the First World War for nursing sisters and the mothers of fallen soldiers.

Because of its location, the watering hole has traditionally been popular with both tourists and civil servants working in the Government buildings on Whitehall.

Downstairs there's a private function room ‘The Whitehall Bar’, which holds over 150 guests and is ideal for hosting celebrations.

As well as showing all major matches for sports fans, there's a new menu launching this month with dishes like smoked houmous with harissa and flatbread, and jerk chicken bao buns, alongside more traditional fish and chips and beef and ale pie.

General managers Darren Johnson and Sue Coleman said: "We have been working hard behind the scenes to renovate the pub, with a complete revamp that has given it a whole new lease of life.

"We’re confident that customers will love our improved facilities, and with the exciting new food and drink menu launching later in the month we will be offering a better drinking and dining experience than ever before."

The Silver Cross is at 33, Whitehall, SWIA