Group adds to portfolio by acquiring 400-year-old gastro pub

A growing pub group has added the Stapylton Arms in Wass, North Yorkshire, to its portfolio.

Crazy Rabbit Inns says it will invest in the gastro pub to enhance its facilities and undertake a sympathetic refurbishment.

The acquisition was supported with £416,000 funding from Fresh Thinking Capital in a move that secures the future of the historic pub.

York-based Crazy Rabbit Inns now operates three pubs across the county with plans to open a fourth this year.

Collette Sunderland, director of the business, said: “The Stapylton Arms dates back to 1620 and is a central part of village life in Wass. We are proud to be taking over the stewardship of this historic venue and will invest to enhance its facilities over the coming months.

“We have ambitious plans for the group that will see us acquire more sites over the coming years.

“Our team has a great track record of building the business of country pubs and supporting the communities they serve. Fresh Thinking Capital is a flexible and responsive funding partner that shares our vision for the future.”

The former owner of the Stapylton Arms, Rob Thompson, is retiring.

Niall Conlon, relationship manager at Fresh Thinking Capital, said: “Collette has a real passion for the industry, and it’s great to be able to support her ambitions.

“Crazy Rabbit Inns has done a great job of acquiring good country pubs and elevating the offering to grow the business. I’m confident the group will continue to go from strength-to-strength.”