Roy and Liz Brown took over the Horseshoes pub in Blunham, Bedford in 2012. The pub was sold to Red Oak Taverns in March 2021 while pubs were being forced to stay closed as part of the Covid 19 lockdown. At the time both Roy and Liz were nervous, Liz said, “We were really concerned that we were entering a national lockdown with new pub owners. We just didn’t know what to expect or whether we would receive any support.”
We quickly set about helping our new tenant partners feel confident in their future at the Horseshoes and Liz added, “Our concerns were soon eradicated when we realised that Red Oak Taverns were very different to what we had experienced before. They were very responsive, providing ongoing support and advice throughout the pandemic and on coming out of the restrictions the company set about investing in our pub.
The pub has now been completely transformed making our two small bars into one open plan area with new décor and flooring throughout, fixed seating and high bar stools and tables accommodate more customers and the whole place is brighter and fresher with a premium feel. Red Oak didn’t stop at the interior. They built a large pergola with festoon lighting and plenty of seating for outside drinking and renovated the rest of the garden including the children’s climbing frame and play equipment.”
The Horseshoes has seen sales double since the investment and continues to develop new offers at the pub. You can certainly say that the Horseshoes is at the centre of this village and its community and will be for a long time to come.
“We couldn’t be happier. Red Oak have been wonderful to work with. Our business development manager has encouraged us to develop the business including introducing cocktails and a gin menu. All the team at the company have really understood the type of pub we are, being the only pub in the village, we need to serve and welcome the whole community and the pub can now do that. We are seeing new faces everyday and happy customers. We even have a wedding booked in the garden next year, numerous children’s parties and other celebrations so we are very busy”
Liz Brown, Landlady
