The free-of-tie lease of the Telegraph, which Linacre previously operated in his Massive pubco days, has been acquired from Ross Sanders, who is focusing on his four-strong Lazy Cow boutique hotel and steakhouse group.
The pub is described as “truly a country pub in London, set in the heart of Putney Heath, a stone’s throw from Wimbledon Common and opposite Roehampton Cricket Club yet only five minutes from the hustle and bustle of Putney High Street”.
Linacre told the Publican's Morning Advertiser's sister title M&C Report: “It’s such a great site, and will be my biggest site by a long way, with 250 covers inside and 300 outside.”
Investment
Separately, Linacre has agreed with Star Pubs & Bars to take on the Blue Ball, which will be subject to “a big investment scheme”. He estimates it will be open by next summer.
The pub has been closed for two years and advertised by Star as follows: “The Blue Ball holds a large plot in the affluent village of Walton on the Hill in Surrey, located just within the M25 to the south west of London and in close proximity to the larger village of Tadworth.
“Given the pub’s excellent location and kerb appeal, it has all the makings of a fantastic food site and the proposed refurbishment will fully exploit these. Key areas of work will be around extending the dining area, refurbishing the trade kitchen as well as a full internal and external redecoration.”