Two themes have underlined recent pub strategy at Wadworth – the need to continue to build on the accommodation offering, and the desire to extend the boundaries of ‘Wadworthshire’ into the South East and London. The company’s two most recent acquisitions are in line with this strategy.“We are delighted to have acquired The Mill, our very first pub in Surrey, which fits perfectly with our plans for moving South East,” says Wadworth Sales and Marketing Director Paul Sullivan. “And with the increasing demand for accommodation in pubs we hope that The Beckford Inn, which is situated on the edge of the beautiful Cotswolds, will prove to be a popular place to stay.”The Beckford is an 18th-century coaching inn near Tewkesbury with exposed beams and a popular restaurant. Wadworth’s refurbishment is making significant and sympathetic changes to the pub’s interior, with upgrades to the bar, dining and kitchen areas and updates to the rooms to provide accommodation equipped with excellent modern facilities in a charmingly traditional environment.The pub will become part of the Great Pub Great Food segment of Wadworth, offering first class, quality food as well as very comfortable accommodation. There is also an onsite 160-person function space which is to be developed for local events. It is hoped that the new Beckford Inn will be up and running by July.A longer timeline is required to update The Mill which is the first pub for Wadworth in Surrey, and it is hoped it will open in the Autumn, also as part of the Great Pub Great Food segment. The Mill has been acquired from Punch Taverns and is undergoing a major refurbishment to enhance its many charms.An attractive pub set alongside an old water mill on the River Wey near Haslemere in the pretty hamlet of Shottermill, The Mill attracts passing trade as well as local customers and Wadworth’s plan is to create a pub that perfectly suits its location and meets the needs of its customers. The popular restaurant is being extended to allow for more covers, and the pub will continue to serve great quality beer. The garden is attractive with plenty of space and a lovely aspect to sit and enjoy the sunshine.ENDSNotes to Editors:For further information, please contact Gail Lacey or Rachel Varney:Rawlingson Lane PublicityFordbrook Business CentreMarlborough RoadPewsey, WiltsSN9 5NURachel VarneyAccount Manager
26th June 2015
