The Roebuck Inn in Marlborough taken over by new family

The Roebuck Inn, on London Road in Marlborough, had faced several struggles over the years, passing between several landlords and landladies and previously receiving a two-star food hygiene rating.

When the previous landlady Jenna took over in February 2024, she told the Gazette and Herald that was all set to change.

But just three months later, The Roebuck Inn became one of the 37 pubs to be bought by Admiral Taverns, the UK’s leading community pub group.

At the time of the sale regular punters, who the Gazette spoke to, said they aren't looking for big change and hope it remains a 'small local boozer they know and love'.

Now, the Humphries family are set to bring The Roebuck back into its prime with fresh home-cooked food, local cask ales and a family-friendly feel.

The Humphries family have taken over The Roebuck in Marlborough (Image: Newsquest) New owner Matt Humphries, his partner B and his daughter Charlotte say they hope to keep "the traditional feel within the pub" but will also offer live music once a month, pub quizzes and a newly decorated look.

Matt has worked in the hospitality industry in Wiltshire for more than 25 years, having worked for Wetherspoons and a local brewery as both manager and tenant.

He said: "Our vision for The Roebuck is to warmly welcome the community back into our pub.

"We still want to keep the traditional feel within the pub and plan to offer live music once a month, pub quizzes and much more will be planned for next year, so keep an eye on social media for more updates.

"We have been fully supported by Admiral Taverns throughout the changeover who have helped with financing deep cleaning and decoration of back of house areas, a new kitchen floor and removing the stretch tent that was blocking the natural daylight into the beer garden.

The family hope to keep the pub's traditional feel (Image: Newsquest) "We have had lots of interest in the pub with people commenting on Facebook and even stopping by and telling us their stories which is great to hear.

"The Roebuck will be a community, family-friendly pub that welcomes everyone in including the families's four-legged friends."

The pub is currently closed while the Humphries family get settled in their new home, but doors are expected to reopen in early October.

Chris Jowsey, CEO of Admiral Taverns added: "Our focus is on helping licensees to maximise the revenue potential of their pub which will help them to build their business, whilst providing a vibrant social amenity for their community.

“Community pubs have demonstrated real resilience over recent times, and we remain optimistic that our nurturing ethos, entrepreneurial licensees and high-quality estate continue to position the Group to be at the forefront of opportunities.”