Local patrons are expressing heartfelt sadness as the beloved Prince of Wales pub in Ham Hill has been put up for sale after 19 years of family stewardship. Mike, Nikki, and Amy-Jo, who have run the venue together, shared the news on their Facebook page on Wednesday, June 25, explaining that it was time to “pass the baton on.”
Their post reflected both nostalgia and optimism: “After 19 fantastic years, we as a family have decided it’s time to pass the baton on. The Prince of Wales Ham Hill has been our lives for such a long time, it’s hard to imagine life without it. Not to mention the incredible team we’ve worked with and the friendships for life we’ve made.”
They went on to reveal that despite the difficulty in saying goodbye, they felt it was time for a change of pace. Transparency was important to them, which is why they informed their community ahead of marketing the business.
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“We’re incredibly fortunate that the business is strong, and whoever buys it, I’m sure will continue to build on the success that our amazing crew and clients have helped us achieve. All that remains to be said is thank you and we’ll update you when we have news.”
The community quickly responded, with over 100 well-wishing comments flooding the post. Many voiced being “gutted” by the news and expressed that the pub simply “wouldn’t be the same” without the family’s guidance.
Bert Weir commented, “Good luck to all of you. You have a fantastic venue. Let’s hope whoever has the privilege of owning it in the future continues with the business in the same way you have.”
Others shared heartfelt memories. Jessaimee Jade said, “The best team and supportive bosses helped us all on our journeys. The Prince of Wales will always have a special place in my heart. Blessings for your next adventure, amazing humans.”
Lucy Downton highlighted the personal safety and community importance, saying, “You have built a safe space, a real hub. Your pub has provided me and my children a sense of ‘home’—a reliable place where I feel safe and confident to go alone. I wish you and your family the very best and hope the new proprietors recognise what a diamond they are buying.”
Stuart Tayler summed up the collective feeling: “Absolutely gutting news, but completely understand. You should be unbelievably proud of what you have done. Whoever takes over has some very, very big boots to fill.”
The Prince of Wales’ legacy as a cherished local institution is clear, and the community eagerly awaits news of what the future holds for this iconic pub.