The Newbury pub might be changing owners with end of lease looming

An award-winning pub in the heart of Newbury might be set for a change in ownership as its 10-year lease draws to a close.

The Newbury, located on Bartholomew Street, has been a successful gastropub in the town centre for many years, but it has suffered recently due to the pandemic’s effect on the hospitality industry.

Landlord Peter Lumber is still considering options when it comes to the future of the pub and contract negotiations are still ongoing.

In a statement on the pub’s Facebook page, Mr Lumber said: “The Newbury is close to my heart and has been a tremendous success story for our local community.

“We are in negotiation with our landlord Greene King and hope to finalise our plans in the coming weeks.

“The landlords are aware of our position and as a result will be considering their options too.”

There is a listing for landlords to apply for the lease on Greene King’s website, suggesting The Newbury’s future is still very much up in the air.

Since Mr Lumber took over at The Newbury nearly 10 years ago, the pub has become one of the most top-rated places to eat in Berkshire and has accrued more than 700 four or five star Tripadvisor reviews.

The Newbury’s kitchen is now only open on Sunday for its roast dinners.