Ribble Valley Inns acquires sixth site
The company, co-owned by Michelin-starred chef Nigel Haworth, is in the process of refurbishing the Stag’s Head, in Great Warford with a view to opening it later this year.
Described by www.whatpub.com as a “rather stark looking brick building” that “belies the warm and friendly atmosphere inside the bar”, the pub adds to Ribble Valley Inns’ presence in Cheshire, following its acquisition of the Nag’s Head in Haughton Moss.
The Stag’s Head was formerly owned by a local entrepreneur.
Ribble Valley Inns also operates four sites in Lancashire – the Three Fishes in Mitton, the Highwayman in Nether Burrow, the Clog & Billycock in Blackburn, and the Bull at Broughton.
Expansion trail
The company is continuing to look for more pubs situated in rural or semi-rural locations in Lancashire, North Yorkshire (west of A1 corridor), Cheshire and Cumbria.
Ideally, it is after freehold or leasehold sites with open fires, and space for a large catering kitchen and a minimum of 120 covers.
Ribble Valley Inns said it would also consider premises that would need to be converted and need change of use planning consent.
The Nag’s Head, which opened in June, has been recommended in the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs 2015 guide. Head chef is Michael Eminson, who has worked closely with Haworth as development chef across all Ribble Valley Inns’ sites.
