James Martin opens pub in 600-year-old site

Following on from opening his new restaurant Grill at The Lygon Arms in the Cotswolds village of Brodway last month, TV chef James Martin has now opened a pub at the hotel.

Despite the challenges that the hospitality sector is facing, with energy bills, staff shortages and a forthcoming increase on duties, the butter-loving chef has not been deterred from opening two spots within the historic structure of the hotel. Martin has also been involved with The Lygon Arms’ sister hotel, Hampshire’s Chewton Glen, since 2017.

The new opening, called Tavern, promises to be “an affable choice to spend a few hours grazing on simple food, enjoying a glass of real ale, and relaxing with the newspapers.”

Dishes on Tavern’s menu include the likes of scotch eggs, sausage rolls and a pork pie, the latter of which, as a nod to Martin’s Yorkshire roots, is served hot. Cotswold ploughman’s and shepherd’s pie are some of the more substantial items on offer.

Andrew Stembridge, executive director of Iconic Luxury Hotels, which counts The Lygon Arms as part of its portfolio, said: “Housed in an incredibly historic building…The Lygon Arms is a piece of history and James’ additions will add another chapter to the storied hotel. Both our team and James have a shared outlook for what we see as the culinary future at The Lygon Arms; one which will incorporate fabulous, top-quality ingredients from the best suppliers. James works with the most renowned butchers, fishmongers, game dealers, farmers, and cheese makers in the country and we look forward to bringing these ingredients to our new and returning guests.”

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