Metropolitan Pub Company acquires gastropub

The site will undergo initial works to introduce the Metropolitan Pub Company’s operating format and food and beverage offering, with an investment upgrade to follow later in the year. 

Metropolitan Pub Company managing director Michael Horan said: “We are delighted to be acquiring the Bull in Highgate, which will open as a Metropolitan gastropub following completion of the purchase this spring. We have exciting plans to further develop the pub with a refurbishment later this year.”  

He said he hoped current employees would stay at the venue, where the company would look to develop their careers for the future. 

New ownership

On Instagram, the previous owners said: “Eoin and I wanted to just let you all know that the Bull has been sold, it was a difficult decision for me to make but I had to do what is best for both us as a business and the Bull itself.  

“It’s been our pleasure to be a part of the Highgate community for the past six years and I’m sure the Bull will go from strength to strength under the new ownership.” 

Metropolitan Pub Company owns a mixture of pubs and hotels across London and the south east of England. Recently, the business acquired the Bear Inn​, Somerset, which opened its doors last Friday (11 March). 

Located in the Bear Flat neighbourhood, the pub is being completely renovated with a new kitchen refurb, revamped bar, refurbished bathrooms, a new colour scheme and a brand-new signage throughout the site.  

As part of the renovation, guests will be able to stay in six individually designed en-suite boutique bedrooms, including a family room, and a dog-friendly room and a dog-friendly room. 

Well-known landmark

“The Bear Inn is a well-known Bath landmark, thanks largely to the well-loved statue of ‘Snowy the bear’ that resides over the door,” according to Matt Ashford, the pub’s general manager. 

He continued: “The team are so excited to welcome guests to the new and improved site, it’ll be a fantastic chance to connect with old regulars as well as meeting new faces.  

“Whether people visit for after-work drinks, to spend time with family and friends, or if they are staying here whilst visiting Bath for the weekend – we’re ready to make them feel at home at the Bear Inn.”  

Following the pub’s reopening ,the kitchen will launch a new food menu made up of seasonal dishes, which will offer authentic pub food and weekend brunches. 

The Bear Inn will also get a revamped beer garden, which is set to host a range of community events, including pub quizzes, over the next year.