Distinctive Inns opens third site in first partnership with Star Pubs & Bars

The Priory in Nunpantan, Loughborough has re-opened following a £650,000 joint refurbishment by Star Pubs and the Midlands-based multiple operator.

The company, run by James Bull and Ross Tunaley, also has sites in Cinderhill and Farndon in Nottinghamshire.

The refurbishment has seen the bar, restaurant and function opened up to create a space for 150 people with defined eating and drinking areas. A new bar and a large kitchen have also been installed.

Bull said of The Priory: “When we first saw The Priory we recognised its potential. It is a massive pub located on a main road near the Loughborough junction of the M1, and so can attract trade over and above its immediate locality.

“It has operated under a number of different management companies in recent years and has become tired and run down. Our joint investment with Star Pubs & Bars and new offer for the pub will enable The Priory to reach its potential. Where we have invested in pubs, we’ve found they have improved the local area as well.”

Chris Jowsey, trading director of Star Pubs & Bars, said: “We’re delighted that such a prominent pub as The Priory is having new life breathed into it and will have a permanent professional team running it. James and Ross are experienced operators who know their target audience and have a track record of transforming underperforming pubs into popular places to eat and drink. We’re delighted to be investing in their vision for The Priory and look forward to building a long term relationship with them both.”