Young’s have announced the acquisition for two new pubs: The Griffin Inn in Fletching and The Carpenter’s Arms in Tonbridge. 

Joining the Young’s portfolio is the 16th century coaching house, The Griffin Inn, located on the High Street of Fletching Village in East Sussex and overlooking the Ouse Valley. The historic pub is home to a public bar, lounge, dining and private dining space, along with 13 en-suite bedrooms, a large garden with outdoor bar and a covered terrace for all-year alfresco dining. Steeped in history, The Griffin Inn has been run by the Pullan family for over 40 years and Young’s are honoured to have acquired the local favourite.

James Pullan comments: “After 44 years of owning, running, living and loving The Griffin Inn, we have decided to sell the business. Over this time, we have created an iconic and unique pub and it was of paramount importance to us for the next owner to continue this legacy. We are delighted that Young’s have taken over the mantle - their non-interventionist approach and all-round professionalism will ensure that The Griffin Inn remains everyone’s go to favourite pub. We wish Young's every success in the future with this historic gem!”

Young’s have also acquired premium suburban pub, The Carpenter’s Arms, in the commuter town of Tonbridge. Previously run by landlord Jamie Brady, the local comprises of a large bar and restaurant, outdoor garden with huts and front patio, alongside nine en-suite hotel rooms. 

Brady comments: “It has been a privilege to have been at the helm of The Carpenter’s Arms for the last 30 years and wish every success to Young’s as they take the pub into this new chapter. With many other local community pubs thriving within the Young’s family, I know the group will continue to deliver the service and quality to locals and visitors alike.”

Simon Dodd, Chief Executive at Young & Co.’s Brewery PLC comments: “We are delighted to be bringing these two local gems and their teams into the Young’s family. The acquisitions represent an excellent opportunity to continue the growth of the Young’s managed estate, with both sites matching our expansion strategy, which is focused on high-quality, managed houses with a premium offering. For us, it is celebrating proper pubs with heritage and, in turn, extending our footprint in Sussex and Kent, building on the huge success of other recent acquisitions such as The Bull in Ditchling. We look forward to welcoming customers into both pubs and we wish both the Pullan family and Jamie Brady the very best for the future.”

Both pubs will continue to open seven days a week, serving locals with a menu of seasonal British dishes, along with an extensive selection of Young’s and guest cask ales, wines and spirits.

The sites join Young’s 226-strong pub portfolio, which includes recent acquisitions of The Half Moon in Windlesham, Merlin’s Cave in Chalfont St Giles and The White Horse in Hascombe, as Young’s strengthens its presence in affluent areas within the home counties.