FAST-growing Wiltshire hospitality business the Chickpea Group has acquired its eighth pub, marking its first venture into Somerset.

The Salisbury-based pub group has acquired the 400-year-old Manor House in Ditcheat near Bruton, Somerset, for an undisclosed sum.

Dating back to the 1600s, The Manor House Inn is steeped in history and stands proudly as a cornerstone of Ditcheat’s rich heritage.

The pub is due to reopen in June following a refit and redecoration and will feature seven guest bedrooms as well as two dining rooms and a new pizza kitchen.

Ethan Davids, co-founder of Chickpea Group with his sister Jordan Davids and friend Thomas Tullis, said: “The Manor House is a truly beautiful pub and offers everything we look for in a Chickpea country boozer.

“The pub has always been incredibly well-supported by the local area, so we hope people are excited about our plans as we are.”

The purchase of The Manor House Inn was made through specialist business property advisor Christie & Co.

Richard Wood, Christie & Co regional Director, said: “I am absolutely thrilled to announce the successful sale of The Manor House Inn, following its closure in November 2023.

“Given their reputation and expertise, I have no doubt that the new owners, Chickpea Group will maximise the potential of this historic pub and transform it into a thriving establishment once again.”

The award-winning Chickpea Group now employs more than 200 people throughout Wiltshire.

The group’s other seven gastropubs are The Bell & Crown in Zeals, The Dog & Gun at Netheravon, The Grosvenor Arms in Hindon, The Pembroke Arms in Wilton, The Queen’s Head in Broad Chalke and the Silver Plough in Pitton and The Market Inn in Salisbury.

The group also has two pizzerias, including Nole on the Square in Salisbury and Nole in the Barn in Wilton.

The Manor House will have 50 covers and will serve the Chickpea Group’s classic pub menu, as well as 40 covers in what will become the Nole pizza kitchen.

The Chickpea Group recently acquired The Market Inn in Salisbury’s Market Square, next to the Nole on the Square. The pub dates back to 1904 and has 60 covers inside and a further 80 outside.

The group also runs three tenanted pubs: The Wellington Arms in Marlborough, Sam Wellers in Bath and the Five Bells in Salisbury, none of which sell food.