Freemans at helm as George is snapped up

Not only did North Bucks pub the George Inn change hands quickly, but the sale marked something of a milestone. The George Inn was sold for an undisclosed figure from a reported asking price of £179,000 for the leasehold interest and, as Stewart Harkness of Christie & Co's Milton Keynes office, who negotiated the sale, explained: "With this transaction we have achieved our highest figure for a leasehold property so far this year." The fine dining pub in Little Brickhill, North Bucks, was snapped up by James and Louise Freeman after it was placed on the market by Ronnie Noble and his wife June, who are retiring from the licensed trade. The Freemans are experienced licensed operators, who will trade as a newly created company called Corks Wine Bar and Restaurant. It is understood that they will continue to run the business very much as a high-quality food establishment. Formerly known as the George & Dragon, the George Inn is a 1930s building located opposite the church in this sought-after country village. The pub is near Woburn Abbey stately home and the famous Woburn Golf Course, meaning it is popular with the golfing fraternity. It also has an establishedreputation as a wedding/function venue and "restaurant with rooms". Chef/patron Ronnie Noble offered a comprehensive à la carte menu in the restaurant plus a selection of bar meals and snacks. The George Inn has a lounge bar, top lounge and dining room, a new conservatory restaurant and a garden room patio restaurant for alfresco dining. There are also four en suite letting bedrooms, owner's accommodation, substantial trade garden and car park.