An historic Barnet pub where highwayman Dick Turpin used to drink is under new ownership.
The Mitre Inn is believed to be the oldest pub in Barnet, having been built in 1449. It was once a stopping place for travellers and drovers on the Great North Road - hence its link with the infamous highwayman.
The Mitre was part of the Spirit Group, which was acquired by Punch Taverns in December 2005. It was one of the 720 to be converted to lease. The new owner is experienced licensee Michael Ekberg. He paid £55,000 for a new lease on an annual rent of £42,000.
"Michael intends to restore the Mitre to a more traditional style of inn," said Christie+Co's Daniel Arnold. "Having closed the pub for refurbishment he has discovered some more original features under plasterboard. With his local knowledge and experience of the licensed trade, Michael is the ideal new owner to give a new lease of life to this historic pub."
The pub already has a reputation for serving quality real ales and wholesome pub food and is popular with shoppers. The main bar occupies the ground floor and is split into three sections. At the rear there is a small beer patio and car park.