Christie & Co completes on sales of three pubs across Essex

The Wooden Fender is located on a site which can be dated back to 1625 as the first pub mentioned as a staging point on the London to Colchester to Harwich route. The detached period property boasts many period features including exposed beams, open fireplace and a variety of cosy seating areas. The traditional pub's relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is complimented by a wide selection of fresh home cooked food, including a lunchtime menu and breakfast menu available five days a week. 

The Wooden Fender has been purchased by local business team, Brian and Lorna Owen who plan to enhance the business via the current successful management team. 

 
The Wagon and Horses, a brewery owned, tenanted pub, is located a short distance from Braintree train station and the main retail area around the Market Place. The business has been purchased by a local businessman who plans to reopen the pub in October after a remodel.   
 

The Cricketers Arms in Rickling Green, near Saffron Walden, boasts a prominent position overlooking the green and cricket pitch in the picturesque setting of the Essex village. Adjacent to a new housing development and within close proximity to Stansted Airport and Parklands Quendon Hall, a popular wedding venue, the site offered excellent potential for a new owner to regenerate the business. 

 
With a bar and restaurant for over 70 covers, 10 en suite letting rooms and external seating for 80 guests, the substantial Cricketers Arms to set to yet again become a popular hub for both the local community and destination visitors. The property has been purchased by Harry Kodagoda from the Horizon Pub Company, who was previously the Operations Manager at Anglian Country Inns, the operator of gastro-pubs and restaurants led by James Nye. 

Mr Kodagoda comments, “I saw a great opportunity with this pub – it’s in a great spot overlooking the village green and the cricket field. At the moment it’s a case of making sure we get this one right and then see where we go.” 

Anthony Jenkins, Associate Director at Christie  & Co who handled all three sales comments, "These sales demonstrate the continued demand for pubs of all shapes and sizes across Essex, from substantial freeholds with an existing successful trade, to leasehold opportunities which allow for an individual to put their own stamp on a business." 

The Wooden Fender and The Wagon and Horses were sold on a freehold basis and The Cricketers Arms on a leasehold basis, all for undisclosed sums.