Unloved venue transformed into premium pub for locals, run by locals
Star Pubs' Investment: £250,000
Previous turnover: £0 (closed)
Situated on the outskirts of Buxton, The Duke had been closed since 2021. A typical community local set in the picturesque Peak District, the pub had been serving mature residents in the surrounding area. The Star Pubs’ investment team had a vision to upgrade the tired venue into a destination food pub to attract the affluent audience situated in the premium housing nearby.
The Duke's Transformation
The Duke
StoryA victim of COVID, The Duke had been closed & boarded up for four years after the previous tenant left in 2021. The pub, while in fair condition, was crying out for some TLC – perfectly positioned for Rebecca Higgins, the new licensee to take on a new project.
The Duke
Rebecca had extensive experience in managing pubs and kitchens before taking some time to start a family. Having managed The Duke prior to COVID, she already knew the potential the pub could offer the local area and was excited to start rebuilding the demand for this once-loved community local.
Bringing back The Duke from complete closure was no small task, but Rebecca, with the support of her husband Daniel and the family, were determined to make it happen. The pub held a personal connection too, as it was where the couple first met.
Rebecca was keen to throw the kitchen sink at The Duke to make the pub the place to be in the area. The pub is an historic stone-built property situated in an attractive demographic in the Peak District. Being family-friendly, dog-friendly and welcoming to hikers were key USPs that Rebecca was eager to emphasise. Refurbishing the beer garden and a new kitchen were central to her plans, while a clear strategy for social media and events convinced the investment team that she had the drive and direction to bring the pub back to life.
