Husband and wife take over reins of historic Ribble Valley pub The Lower Buck Inn at Waddington

A traditional inn, originally built on its site in Edisford Road in 1760, the Ashtons take over from current leaseholder Oliver Clegg in a sale arranged by commercial real estate firm Colliers.

The inn which is constructed of sandstone, and includes a roaring open fire in the 70-capacity bar, as well as five bespoke, ensuite letting rooms, and a three bedroom cottage, has been owned by Oliver for the last seven years, but he has now sold the inn to pursue other business interests.

Ed was previously the general manager at the Brown Cow, in Chatburn. He said: “Laura and I are extremely pleased to be taking on the Lower Buck Inn and adding our own stamp to the business. It’s a beautiful building full of character, and I know it’s very dear to the hearts of the locals. “We’re looking forward to meeting everyone, and also working to make sure that the Lower Buck Inn is recognised as a top destination in The Ribble Valley.”

Neil Thomson, from Colliers Hotel Agency team, added: “It’s been a pleasure dealing with Oliver of The Lower Buck Inn who has heavily invested into the business during his tenancy, which will serve as a fantastic backdrop to the future plans that Ed and Laura have in mind.

“Despite the challenges we all continue to face, the demand for regional UK hotels and inns remains, particularly from potential buyers who are attracted towards the medium to long term prospects of a sector with a real sense of optimism.”