Lucky Onion pub group snaps up Chequers pub in Oxfordshire 14th November 2012

The legendary Chequers pub in the heart of Oxfordshire has been sold by Colliers International.

Hotels director Peter Brunt said the stylish and highly profitable village pub, which had undergone a complete refurbishment by the present owners, has been snapped up by the ambitious Lucky Onion pub group.

The group also operates the Wheatsheaf in Northleach, the Tavern and The Tavern in Cheltenham. 131 The Promenade and Crazy Eights in Cheltenham will open in 2013 with rooms, bar and restaurant.

Peter Brunt said: “The vendors Peter and Assumpta are sad to be leaving, having rescued the Chequers when it was closed and having created a highly successful business attracting a loyal clientele from miles around. It has been virtually rebuilt for ease of operation and is now efficient and easy to run.”

The Chequers has enjoyed a boom as one of the leading gastro pubs on the Cotswolds circuit.

The detached property is built mainly of stone with accommodation set out on ground and two upper floors, with basement cellar. Part of the building is thought to be 18th century with additions by the present owners.

The Dining Room has an oak floor and windows with a view of the church opposite. There is seating for approximately 110 in all. The public areas are presented to a very high standard throughout.

There is also am owners’ suite on the second floor, which consists of a large living/bedroom running the whole length of the front of the pub, plus a bathroom.

Peter Brunt said: “The vendors bought the Chequers in 2003 after it had been closed for about five years. It was in poor order, but their vision and investment transformed the property and after re-opening in early 2004, the pub rapidly established itself at the top of the tree.

“Having put so much into its development, they feel they needed a break from the business, hence the decision to sell.

“The opportunity to buy a Cotswold pub generating this sort of turnover does not come about very often, which is why it didn’t linger on the market very long. The new owners have certainly acquired one of the very best pubs in the area.”