Historic country pub near Peterborough gets new owners
A historic country pub near Peterborough has changed hands, with new owners taking the reigns last week - but it is very much business as usual.
Marc and Julie Chatfield only got the keys to the stone-built, thatched 17th century Kings Arms in the village of Polebrook on Monday of last week - and with the pub not routinely open on Tuesdays welcomed their first customers the next day.
"Our amazing team were all keen to stay which has made the transition seamless," said Julie, who has relocated with Marc from the Essex/Herts area to take on their first pub venture.
“We have planned to include a pub in our future for a number of years and The Kings Arms felt like the perfect fit from the moment we saw it. It has such a great atmosphere and loyal following. We are looking forward to building on its success and becoming part of the Polebrook community.”
"The building (Grade II-listed ) is stunning and needs no major work, but we will be having redecoration works over the summer, including new colour scheme throughout," Julie added.
Customers old and new can look forward to some menu updates with weekly specials to add variety.
And the couple will be looking to introduce regular theme nights.
The pub was sold on behalf of former owner Progrowth Ltd. Director John White, a local resident who has owned pub since the 1990s, commented: "After many wonderful years at The Kings Arms, it felt like the right time to pass it on. I’m delighted to see it go to someone who shares the same passion for the pub and the community. I wish Marc all the best in this exciting new chapter."
Tim Widdows, Associate Director at Christie & Co who managed the sale, added: "We generated a great deal of interest in The Kings Arms from a variety of buyers, which is a testament to its strong reputation and potential. We’re very pleased to have secured a successful outcome for Progrowth and to have helped Marc take his first step into pub ownership."