Green Man Hodsoll Street

Leisure property specialist Fleurets has completed the leasehold sale of the Green Man in Hodsoll Street, near Wrotham in Kent.

The sellers, John and Jean Hayward, who, with their son, David, have been successfully running the very popular destination pub and restaurant for some time, were looking to retire and instructed Fleurets to put their leasehold interest on the market with a guide price of £135,000.

This lovely period property, overlooking the village green, which has been a public house since the 18th century, has now been acquired by Alex Brooks and Steph Hunter, first-time operators who have moved to the village from London.

Simon Bland, of Fleurets, who brokered the deal, said: “I’m delighted both for our clients and Steph and Alex, who I know will relish running their first pub. I knew it would be a great opportunity for them to take over such a well-run business in such a delightful place to trade and bring up their family, and I wish them the very best of luck and the Haywards a long and happy retirement.”

Alex and Steph said: “We fell in love with the Green Man the first time we visited. It’s exactly what we were looking for — a warm and friendly atmosphere, great local community and an attraction for people from further afield looking for a country pub in a beautiful setting.

“We have managed pubs and bars in London, but we wanted to bring our experience and passion for the food and drink business to a more local setting. We’re looking forward to being a real part of this community.”