Mark Higgs, Dreamer & Founder, incorporated Freespirit Pubs, introducing:
And so began our collection of magnificent country pubs, with great hospitality at its heart.
During lockdown, we honed our vision and strengthened our ambition. More than ever, we learned just how much our guests love our pubs.
We hosted regular takeaway Sunday lunches, Tuesday Steak Club, and even doughnut deliveries. Our team and our guests wowed us with their incredible support — proving that Freespirit is more than just pubs; it’s a community.
The Bell Inn at Ladbroke joined the collection — another beautiful village pub set in thechocolate-box village of Ladbroke.
That same year, Freespirit Events was officially registered. For years, we had hosted amazing weddings and epic parties, so bringing our events business into the collection felt like a natural next step.
The Castle Gin School was born, turning a derelict room at the top of the iconic tower at Edgehill, creating amazing Freespirit House gins , hosting great tastings and teaching our wonderful guests some secrets to creating wonderful gin , in truly memorable location.
House, Leamington joined the family.
Lovingly referred to by the team as our “naughty little cousin,” this fabulous building in Royal Leamington Spa marked our first step into town life.
An opportunity to show off our fun side — offering amazing private party spaces for those epic celebrations under our roof. With weekly live music, comedy and quiz nights, shuffleboard, and banging cocktails, it’s a place to let your hair down and hang out with friends.
The Old Coach House, Ashby St Ledgers
This beautiful coaching inn — with 11 comfortable rooms, a large restaurant, private dining spaces, and great outdoor areas — grabbed us from our very first visit.
Even through the damp walls and overgrown garden, we could see the potential in this historic village inn. After a three-month refurbishment, we proudly opened the doors in November.
Shepherds’ Huts at The Bell
After two years of planning, council meetings, drawings — and more planning — plus our biggest investment to date, we launched seven beautiful shepherds’ huts at The Bell. This allowed us to bring exceptional stays to our country pub experience.
The George at Brailes joined the family.
This historic Grade II listed coaching inn had been on our radar for years. When the stars finally aligned, we were beyond excited to step into the Cotswold action and welcome this classic inn into the Freespirit collection.
2025 Freespirit Fun Facts
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