The Ostrich Inn, one of the country's most historic and classic inns located in the wealthy Berkshire village of Colnbrook, has been brought to market through Christie & Co with a guide price of £1.35m.
Dating back to 1106, The Ostrich Inn is regarded as England’s third oldest inn, occupying a prominent and highly visible location on the High Street in Colnbrook. Set on nearly half an acre, the pub showcases many original features dating back over 900 years, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Nearby attractions which draw visitors to the area include Windsor Castle, Ascot Racecourse and Legoland.
The Grade II listed inn has remained an important staging post since the middle ages and holds a rich history, which includes hosting many royal guests and according to local folklore, a series of mysterious guest disappearances that occurred in the 17th century. These were later found out to be a string of murders committed by the infamous landlord of the time, Mr Jarman. He and his wife would fill the rich customers with food and wine before they retired for the night in one of the rooms with a magic four-poster bed. The bed would tip backwards when they were asleep and drop them into a pot of boiling water, killing them instantly!
Today, the detached two-storey property comprises a characterful main bar, a restaurant space serving traditional British fayre with a focus on local produce, and an adjoining private dining room, all with original features including exposed timber beams, brickwork and a large fireplace. A function room featuring a large, vaulted ceiling and its own bar servery with capacity for 40 guests is also located on the first floor, whilst the rear of the inn features a south facing terrace with outdoor seating and large car park.
The building underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2015 when it was acquired by the current owners. This included updates to the main trading areas and the addition of eleven en-suite letting rooms, individually styled with a blend of contemporary and classic interiors.
The sale of The Ostrich Inn presents a unique opportunity to acquire one of England’s most historic coaching inns, situated in a highly desirable village setting and well-maintained following the recent refurbishment. Operated as a managed house, the business possesses a strong mix of income streams through the bar, restaurant and boutique accommodation offering which appeals to both business and visiting customers.
Simon Chaplin, Senior Director of Pubs & Restaurants at Christie & Co is handling the sale and comments, “The successful inn is a prominent landmark within Colnbrook and would be an excellent opportunity for a range of buyers looking to buy a piece of “Ye Olde England” but not as a vanity piece as The Ostrich is a fully functioning and profitable business with many successful years ahead of it.”
