London high street welcomes Oakman addition
The Beech House was officially opened by the Deputy Mayor of Richmond, Councillor Mona Adams on 7 December 2018, following six months of construction.
Peter Borg-Neal, CEO and founder of Oakman Inns, said: “The evening was a splendid start to our relationship with everyone in Hampton Hill and people have been very kind in their expressions of delight at our opening.
He added: “I had the pleasure of meeting some of the local rugby team players and we are in talks with Teddington RFC about sponsoring their minis and juniors, the 15th local team to be supported by Oakman Inns.”
Friendly space
Seasonal Mediterranean-inspired dishes are on the food menu and prepared in an open, theatre-style kitchen.
The pub will accommodate up to 92 diners, with another 16 covers available outside, and a bar with a capacity for 45.
Its reclaimed wood interior was designed by the award-winning architectural firm Macaulay Sinclair, which designed Dishoom in Kensington and the Alchemist venues.
Beech House general manager James Bird said the team were looking forward to meeting its neighbours and welcoming new visitors.
He added: “Being open all day for every meal, from breakfast to dinner and all relaxing stops in between, my team of 40 and I have been heartened by the positive and encouraging comments about the design, our food, drinks and service.
Fans of the new pub include A Place In The Sun presenter Amanda Lamb, who tweeted she had been four times in as many days and said she “absolutely loved it”.
Pubco expansion
Oakman Inns reported a like-for-like sales growth of 8.5% in its most recent trading update, with its newest sites exceeding performance expectations.
Five new sites have been planned in Farnham, Wokingham, Buckingham, Epsom and Hatfield.
It has hired Dermot King, director at Bourne Leisure and managing director at Butlins, to take on a senior role at the group as it expands.
- Interested in running a pub? You can find out more about pubs for sale, lease and tenancy on the MA’s property site.
