A fast-growing Suffolk pubs group is toasting its latest acquisition - a hotel on the Great Ouse river.

Chestnut Group founder Philip Turner said it was a "real honour" to become the new owner of The Old Bridge in Huntingdon because of its strong reputation.

The inn was previously owned and run by John and Julia Hoskins, who bought it in 1994.

Chestnut described the inn - which has 24 bedrooms - as one of the area’s leading hospitality destinations.

The latest acquisition - which brings its portfolio of East Anglian pubs across Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire to 17 - expands Chestnut's footprint further west.

“It’s a real honour to be buying The Old Bridge, a place with a strong reputation that has set standards for hospitality over the last five decades,” said Mr Turner, Chestnut's managing director.

"Thanks to the hard work, love and attention John and Julia have put into The Old Bridge we don’t plan on changing a winning formula.

"The team and the ambience of the building already have a strong ‘Chestnut’ feel, so we know our values and approach are consistent.

"Alignment of approach is perfectly illustrated by the fact John won The Best Pub and Bar Catey Award 2004, and we were fortunate to win the same award in June 2023.

"I hope this helps us qualify as the next custodian of this successful business.

"As always, over time we will bring in new investment, ideas and energy to grow the business in line with our Chestnut ambitions, in the meantime the obvious passion and expertise of The Old Bridge team will ensure a seamless transition."

The deal includes Old Bridge Wines, a well-respected retail wine shop, driven by John Hoskins' passion as a Master of Wine.

"Following our recent acquisition of the wholesaler Peter Graham Wines (PGW), we can accelerate our plans to develop a retail offering across the region, starting with Chestnut’s fast-growing database" said Mr Turner.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Old Bridge Hotel at Huntingdon

John Hoskins welcomed the deal, which he felt would secure the pub's future.

"I cannot imagine an organisation better suited to maintain the spirit and success of The Old Bridge than Chestnut.

"Meeting Philip and his team has reassured me that they are the right people to whom we should pass on this much-loved institution, which we have been privileged to run for so long. The future looks very bright for both our team and our guests.”

Ryan Lynn, partner at Knight Frank, handled the sale on behalf of the vendor.

“It has been an absolute pleasure working with both John and Philip throughout the process and couldn’t speak more highly of the professionalism of all parties involved. We are excited to see how the business grows over the coming years,” he said.