It is the couple’s third lease with Star Pubs, their others being the Butler’s Arms in Pleasington and the Hospital Inn in Bamber Bridge. The Feilden’s had previously been run under temporary management.
Star investment manager Andy Bowden said: “I am delighted Julie and George have taken on the Feilden’s Arms. It needed the right operators for it to realise its true potential.
“They have decades of hospitality experience at home and abroad and run two successful nearby pubs – the Butler’s Arms for almost two years, and the Hospital Inn for eight. Their local knowledge and vision together with the investment in housing and new jobs on their doorstep will ensure the success of Feilden’s Arms.”
Traditional village pub
The couple and Star Pubs have undertaken a joint £465,000 refurbishment of the Feilden’s Arms, which will see it reopen in mid-August as a family and dog friendly traditional village pub offering live sports and entertainment. Some 20 new jobs have been created on the back of the investment.
Inside, the pub is set to be redecorated, retaining a traditional look and feel with new flooring, lighting and furniture, providing seating for 96.
Meanwhile the games room is being kitted out with a new pool table, darts board and HDTVs. The pub’s six bedrooms will also be refreshed.
Outside improvements will include new signage, lighting and furniture for 60 for alfresco covers.
In addition to showing Sky Sports, the licensing duo have planned for the Feilden’s Arms to host live entertainment on a monthly basis and have a calendar of food and drink related events.
Great location
Panaro said the Feilden is in a great location and presented the pair with an opportunity that was “not to be missed”.
She continued: “It’s a gorgeous looking pub that just needs refreshing and a clear direction. It is also multi-functional with bar, dining and games room.
“It’s important to us that the Feilden’s Arms is run as a proper pub and offers real value for money to encourage repeat business as people can feel ripped off sometimes when they go out for a meal at a country pub.
“We’ll also be introducing a loyalty card like our other pubs, where they’re popular, and offering our popular Club Menu Monday – Thursday.
“As for future expansion plans, we’re happy with three, though if an opportunity like this one came along again, we might be tempted.”
