One of Midhurst's 'most historic and recognisable pubs' has been sold
A Midhust pub, dating back to the 1600s, has been acquired by Red Oak Taverns.
The sale of The Wheatsheaf – in Wool Lane – was handled by specialist leisure property agent Fleurets, marketed at a guide price of £495,000, plus VAT, for the freehold interest.
A spokesperson told the Midhurst and Petworth Observer: “Dating back in part to 1621 and formerly home to the Squire's Chapel, The Wheatsheaf is one of Midhurst's most historic and recognisable pubs."
The Wheatsheaf was described as a prominent pub in the heart of Midhurst.
The sale marks Red Oak Taverns’ first acquisition of the year, as it ‘continues an active expansion strategy’.
The company said further sites are ‘already under offer’, and the group is ‘actively looking to grow its estate’.
The imposing two-storey corner property sits within the South Downs National Park, serving one of the ‘most affluent and well-visited market towns’ in the South East, the spokesperson added.
They added: “The site features spacious character bars, a dining area, a large function room, a pool room and a courtyard garden.”
Property and acquisitions director Graeme Bunn said Red Oak Taverns is ‘really pleased to acquire’ The Wheatsheaf.
He added: “Following the expansion of our lending group by bringing in NatWest last month, alongside OakNorth, to support our long-term acquisition strategy we are optimistic that this will be the first of many in the year.
“The purchase from Hall & Woodhouse forms the second transaction between the parties following Red Oak’s purchase of ten pubs in 2021 and follows other transactions with regional brewers including St Austell, Wadworth, Wells & Co, and McMullen.
"We are currently under offer on other transactions and remain keen to add further wet led traditional freehold pubs to our estate.”
Nick Earee, divisional director at Fleurets South, brokered the transaction.
He said: "Having known this historic site for many years, I'm delighted to have completed its sale to Red Oak Taverns, and we look forward to supporting their continued growth in 2026 and beyond.”