Charming 18th century pub nestled in scenic Derbyshire village taken on by new owners – who shared their excitement over plans for Grade II listed country inn
A charming 18th century pub nestled in a scenic Derbyshire village has a new team at the helm – who have shared their excitement after taking over the Grade II listed venue.
The Staff of Life, a country inn located in the picturesque village of Ticknall, has been sold to new owners. The Grade II-listed 18th century public house is a well-established hospitality business comprising a traditional pub, a 60-cover dining area and an attractive beer garden able to seat up to 70 people.
The Staff of Life occupies a prime position in the village of Ticknall, bordering the renowned Calke Abbey estate. The Grade-I listed National Trust building is a major attraction for visitors to the area.
Containing characterful features, the pub has a charming street presence with an aesthetic in keeping with many properties in the surrounding villages and their links to the Calke Abbey estate. The country inn offers eight en suite letting rooms, with five located above the pub and three further rooms in an adjacent outbuilding.
Christopher and Kaye Nix bought The Staff of Life 30 years ago, and for most of that time, operated the pub themselves with the help of an excellent team.
Christopher said: “There is some sadness that a major part of our lives has ended, together with pride at having built such a successful pub. We are excited about retirement possibilities and wish Nathan and his team every success.”
The new owners said: “We’re delighted to have completed on this purchase and be working alongside our new tenant Nathan, who is passionate about great food, welcoming service, and creating venues that sit at the heart of the community.
“The aim for Staff of Life is to build on the fantastic work of the previous owners, maintaining the warm atmosphere and strong reputation the pub already enjoys, whilst gradually introducing exciting new ideas and improvements.
“Guests can look forward to thoughtful updates to the menu, alongside enhancements to the rooms and overall offering, all designed to complement the character and heritage of this much-loved village inn. Nathan and the team look forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new visitors in the months ahead.”
Specialist business property advisers Christie & Co announced the sale of the country inn. Jonty Green is the business agent for pubs & restaurants at Christie & Co, and managed the process of placing the venue on the market.
He added: “The Staff of Life is a fantastic example of a quintessential English country pub with diverse income streams and excellent future potential. Its location near the National Trust’s Calke Abbey made it especially attractive to buyers looking for a destination-led business.
“It quickly became clear during the marketing period just how well-respected the pub is with the local community. I am thrilled to have completed this sale and wish the new owners every success as they take the business forward.”
The Staff of Life was sold at an undisclosed sum, off a freehold asking price of £650,000.