Located in the centre of the north Dorset town just a short walk from Gold Hill, made famous by Ridley Scott’s Hovis advert in the seventies, the pub dates back to the 17th century.
It will have a 100-cover dining space where it will serve the group’s menu of ‘pub bangers’ that will include smash burgers, scotch eggs, handmade pies and Nole pizzas.
On Sundays it will serve a roast with all the trimmings.
To one side of the pub is a long, adjoining room which was previously used as a games area with pool table. This space will be redesigned, with a separate entrance and used as a revolving pop up concept, and a chance for the team to bring in seasonal special guests and retail offerings.
“The Kings Arms has all the characteristics of a great pub: a roaring fire, long bar, and plenty of space,” says Ethan Chickpea Group co-founder Ethan Davids.
“We think our model will work nicely there and we’re looking forward to swinging the doors back open after a particularly long period of closure.”
Chickpea Group is owned and run by brother and sister Ethan and Jordan Davids, along with their friend Tommy Tullis.
It operates a number of gastropubs in the south west, including The Silver Plough in Pitton; The Queen’s Head in Broad Chalke; The Bell & Crown in Zeals; The Grosvenor Arms in Hindon; The Pembroke Arms in Wilton; and The Dog & Gun, Netheravon.
It also has two pizzerias under the Nole brand – Nole on the Square in Sailsbury; and Nole in the Barn in Wilton.
The Kings Arms will open in late November.
