'Coming soon': Ferryboat Inn closes after being sold to new owners with Bramley Pub Co set to take over
New pub owners have ‘invested’ in its heritage as it plans to reopen
The heritage of a waterfront pub is being ‘taken seriously’ by its new owners who plan to reopen the site as a gastro.
The News previously reported that the Ferryboat Inn, on Hayling Island, ceased trading under the Stonegate Group and its previous management on Saturday, May 30 following the pub’s sale.
The pub and restaurant was put up for sale at the end of last year, with a post on Facebook saying Edwina, who had managed the site for the past 11 years, would be departing, sparking devastation amongst staff and customers.
The business, which was incorporated in March of this year, wrote on its site, saying: “The Ferryboat Inn has sat at the edge of Hayling Island for as long as most people can remember. We've taken that heritage seriously — keeping everything that made it special and building something new around it.
“Under Bramley Pub Co, we've invested properly in the kitchen, the cellar, and the team. The result is a proper gastro pub: seasonal menus driven by Hampshire and coastal suppliers, a drinks list with real thought behind it, and service that feels genuine rather than scripted.”
The Ferryboat Inn posted on Facebook on Sunday (May 31) saying: “The pub is now closed. The staff are all in to help Edwina clear the pub out ready for the new owners to take over.Watch this space for when the pub reopens.”
The Bramley Pub Co website says menus are currently being finalised, with plans to use local suppliers including Laverstoke Park Farm, Premier Fish, Taylors Farm, Harvest Fine Foods and more.
Readers have responded to the news of the closure, with Laura Jones saying: “Looks like it’s being turned into a gastro pub. Nice seasonal food, good wine etc. would be good for the island and a great location.”
Jax Coll added: “Hope, that means the re-opened pub will generate some life on both sides.”
Sarah Harrison continued: “We go there a lot. A well priced pub with friendly staff. Rumour suggests becoming a Gastropub. I hope sensibly priced. I hope they keep the staff.”
Bramley Pub Co has been contacted for more information.