One of England's oldest pubs restored to 'former glory'

The Hollybush pub in Salt, near Stafford, opened its doors once again on Tuesday 1 March after a combined investment of £370,000 from community pub company, Admiral Taverns, and new licensees, Ben Knowles, and Neil Washington.

Admiral Taverns business development manager Jody said: “We’re delighted Ben and Neil have taken over the Hollybush.

“It’s a fantastic site that has so much potential and we’re confident it will thrive under their management and support.

Traditional features 

“I’m very pleased to have them onboard and I look forward to seeing the pub being re-introduced to the local community.”

Knowles and Washington took on the historic pub, which is one of the oldest pubs in England and dates back to 1620 according to Admiral, in December 2021 with a view to restoring its traditional features and, together with Admiral, have given the Hollybush an interior and exterior refurbishment while retaining the sites uniqueness.   

Externally, the beer garden at the rear of the pub has been renovated and a new thatched roof has been re-installed to pay tribute to the pub’s traditional roots.

Inside, the snug area and wooden beams have been restored along with a new log burner fitted.

Quintessential British country pub

As well as 3 cask ales, 5 premium lagers, ciders, wines, spirits, and soft drinks available, the Hollybush will also serve food 7 days a week between 12pm and 9pm with a breakfast offering at the weekends between 9am and 12pm and roast dinners on a Sunday.

Knowles said: “During Covid I was extremely saddened to see this once vibrant country pub closed, I was determined to reopen it and bring it back to its former glory.

“We’ve invested heavily in the building and we’re working hard to make it the quintessential British country pub.

“I look forward to welcoming both new and old customers back to this wonderful and historic venue.”