A major pub chain has bought a Grade II-listed boozer in Marlow – and has big plans for its future.

The George and Dragon on The Causeway closed its doors after more than 50 years of trading last week after it was dubbed one of Whitbread’s “lower returning” sites alongside around 200 others across the UK.

However, a spokesperson for the company hinted that a sale was underway and the buyer has now been confirmed as the Heartwood Collection – an up-and-coming hospitality group hoping to significantly grow its portfolio over the next few years.

Richard Ferrier, CEO of the Heartwood Collection, whose 25 currently operating sites include The Jolly Farmer in Chalfont St Peter and The Coat and Bear in Newbury alongside a number of Brasserie Blanc restaurants, said he was “delighted” to acquire ownership of The George and Dragon, which he said had been in the pipeline “for a long time”.

The new-and-improved pub near Marlow Bridge and All Saints Church will open next summer after a multi-million-pound renovation that will see 17 existing bedrooms undergo a boutique-style makeover paying homage to “the town’s history” and proximity to the River Thames.

Former manager Sumukh Kondaskar said the pub's business struggled to recover after Buckinghamshire Council issued a penalty notice ordering that all outdoor seating be removed when it was judged to encroach onto the public highway.

Heartwood are ploughing right ahead with plans for al-fresco drinks and dining, however, with capacity for 200 customers indoors and 50 outside. 

Mr Ferrier added: “The George and Dragon will add a huge amount to our Heartwood Inns business (and we are planning to) invest significant time and capital in it.

“We have real momentum in our acquisition programme at present and a busy 12 months ahead.”

Heartwood’s ambitious expansion plans include growing to a more than 60-site chain by 2027, with seven scheduled to open in the next year.