Gandhi and Churchill pub and hotel gets new owner

A pub and hotel once frequented by Gandhi and Sir Winston Churchill has a new owner.

The Swan and Royal has been bought by Nuttall and Wright Investments.

Bosses Liam Nuttall and Jack Wright say they will spend £250,000 to renovate the early 1800s coaching inn, based in Clitheroe, near Blackburn, pledging to upgrade its six bedrooms and expand its food offer. 

Known for welcoming Sir Winston, the Castle Street base opened its doors to Mahatma Gandhi during his visits to Lancashire in the 1930s as part of his campaign for Indian independence.

Jet engine inventor Sir Frank Whittle also stayed at the hotel in the early 1940s while visiting factories in the area. 

As well as the pub, the deal includes the adjoining Swan Courtyard, which is home to 11 independent businesses and two residential flats.

Liam said: “Our vision is to bring back some of the property’s former glory by investing significantly in the facilities and the food and drink offering.

“We’ve hired a new head chef and catering team, and we plan to give each bedroom its own identity.”

Liam and Jack were advised on the deal by the leisure and licensing sector team at North West-based law firm Harrison Drury.

Samantha Faud, senior associate solicitor, added: “This is great news for Clitheroe’s hospitality sector and for the local economy, which will benefit during the renovation and from the ‘buy local’ ethos Liam and Jack wish to instil.”

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