Anglian Country Inns has acquired its ninth site – the Lytton Arms, in the village of Knebworth in north Hertfordshire.
The Nye family has strong ties to the pub, which was previously run by Steve Nye. The family said the aim was to restore the pub, which is currently closed, to the centre of the local community with a big focus on the quality and range of beers.
James Nye, group managing director, said: “When we heard about the opportunity of The Lytton Arms, it was very hard not to be excited. I had my first job scrubbing dishes in the kitchen and it is a pub very close to our family. Whilst wet led pubs may have been struggling during recent years, we feel there is a great opportunity to make the most of the free-of-tie position to curate an exciting collection of real ales, craft beers and ciders, alongside an authentic food offer. We are very excited to be writing the next chapter for The Lytton Arms and very much look forward to serving the local community. This sort of pub is very much part of our ethos and we see it as a great opportunity to further expand our existing successful portfolio.”
Director Howard Nye said: “This exciting acquisition is very close to my heart and we know it is a ‘much loved’ local watering hole. The refurbishment will not detract from its original character and will make the most of the Lutyens building and the history attached to the pub and the park. We want to create a great environment to enjoy the quality range of beers and make the most of the rotating cask ales on the 10 hand pulls as well as a wholesome rustic menu created from local produce. The beer garden will be completely revamped too.”
