Heartwood adds two new freehold pubs to its Inns portfolio

Heartwood Collection backed by Alchemy Partners has acquired two new freehold pubs as part of its ongoing plans to grow Heartwood Inns. Heartwood Collection is on track to grow to over 60 inns with up to 500 rooms and brasseries by 2027. The two new inns added to its portfolio are The Plough and Harrow, Long Ditton, opening late November 2023 and The Crown, Lichfield, opening late January 2024. The Plough and Harrow (formerly known as the George Evelyn) is located in Long Ditton, South West London and will undergo an extensive refurbishment. The pub will have 139 internal dining seats aided by an extension to the rear which will feature bifold doors opening onto the garden. Outside, the large garden will be landscaped to create a further 100 dining seats including 38 in a newly-constructed garden room. On the other hand, The Crown will be extensively refurbished to create a relaxed bar area with lounge seating around a traditional fireplace. To the rear of the inn, there will be 128 dining seats including a semi private dining space for up to 14 guests, a garden room for up to 50 guests and booths and snugs in Heartwood’s style. A sheltered, tiered courtyard will create a further 74 seats designed for year round dining with a heated pergola. The acquisition of the two inns follows the announcement two weeks ago by Heartwood Inns that it has acquired its first pub with rooms, The White Horse in Dorking, Surrey which will feature 56 bedrooms and which is also due to open early in 2024. Heartwood Inns also recently opened the Black Swan in Henley in Arden, Warwickshire. Richard Ferrier, managing director, Heartwood Collection, said: “The acquisition of two new freehold pubs marks a hugely exciting period in the growth of Heartwood Inns. “We are delighted that two iconic pubs in Long Ditton and Lichfield will be joining the group. We are firmly committed to investing in both of the pubs for the long term. We cannot wait to see them re-open as Heartwood Inns.”