Historic Essex pub from 1500s sold to new first-time owners

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 6 Nov, 10:42 · Archive

The Layer Fox, a 16th-century pub near Colchester, has been sold to first-time owners George and Chantel.

The Layer Fox, a historic pub in Layer-de-la-Haye near Colchester with origins dating back to the 16th century, has been taken over by first-time pub owners George and Chantel, who say they plan to take a hands-on approach to running the business.

The property was marketed through Christie & Co, a specialist business property adviser, with a freehold asking price of £450,000. It has now changed hands for an undisclosed sum.

The character-filled pub boasts exposed beams and ornate detailing reflecting its centuries-old history. The downstairs bar has space for around 35 customers, whilst upstairs a restaurant can accommodate a further 55 people for dining and private functions. The site also includes four bedrooms, two outside seating areas with elevated decking overlooking the rear garden, and a 20-space car park. The pub is close to attractions including Colchester Zoo and Abberton Reservoir.

The previous owners, Caroline Compton and her husband, bought The Layer Fox in 2015 and refurbished the property in subsequent years, though its day-to-day operation was left to a manager. Mrs Compton decided to sell following the death of her husband.

How it is being reported

• Historic Essex pub dating back to 1500s snapped up by new ownersHistoric Essex pub The Layer Fox near Colchester has been sold to first-time owners George and Chantel, who plan to run the 16th-century venue hands-on.Brentwood Guardian · 6 Nov, 10:30
• Historic Essex pub dating back to 1500s snapped up by new ownersHistoric Essex pub The Layer Fox near Colchester has been sold to first-time owners George and Chantel, who plan to run the 16th-century venue hands-on.Colchester Gazette · 6 Nov, 10:30
• Historic Essex pub dating back to 1500s snapped up by new ownersHistoric Essex pub The Layer Fox near Colchester has been sold to first-time owners George and Chantel, who plan to run the 16th-century venue hands-on.Echo (Basildon) · 6 Nov, 10:30

In this story: The Layer Fox · Layer-de-la-Haye · Colchester · George · Chantel · Caroline Compton · Christie & Co · Colchester Zoo

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log