An 18th century Cumbrian pub has been sold as its owners retire.
The Shepherds Inn, at the foot of Hartside Pass, has been run by husband-and-wife team Mike and Margaret Haddow for seven years.
Built in 1789, The Shepherds Inn in Melmerby, near Penrith, has over 200 years of history as a hospitality venue.
It was sold off an asking price of £375,000 and was marketed by Christie & Co.
After more than 50 years in the hospitality industry, Mike and Margaret have decided to retire and sell the pub to step back from the sector.
Mike said: “Having started working in a pub at the age of 15, we bought The Shepherds Inn in 2018 to complete a full circle in my career, going from pot washer to group executive chef to the pub I operated with Margaret.
“After spending over 50 years in catering, we have now reached the right time to retire, having completed our journey and helped to transform our historic village pub from inconsistent and unloved back to its former glory.
“In today’s difficult market, at first, we weren’t sure how to go about the sale process, but I met Marslie at the Lakes Hospitality Trade Show and was aware of Christie & Co’s reputation.
“We are pleased that the sale has successfully completed, and we are grateful for the support and advice provided by Marslie as well as our team of solicitors at Burnetts.”
Marslie McGregor, Business Agent at Christie & Co, added, “The Shepherds Inn offered a brilliant opportunity for a hospitality operator to acquire a renowned, characterful, freehold premises in the beautiful Cumbrian countryside.
“The business is highly regarded and has upheld an excellent reputation for many years. It was a pleasure selling the pub on behalf of Mike and Margaret, who are now looking forward to a well-deserved retirement, and I wish the new owners all the success in their new venture.”
