Young’s pub group has successfully acquired the Ship Inn in Noss Mayo, situated in southwest Devon. Despite speculations about Gordon Ramsay expressing interest in obtaining the freehold site, Young’s secured the purchase.

The waterside pub, positioned along the tidal Yealm Estuary, was listed by Colliers in August with offers expected around £3.7m. Rumors circulated about Ramsay contemplating a bid, fueled by sightings of him inspecting the venue.

The establishment comprises a 160-cover ground floor pub and dining room, a private pier, a garden, and a waterfront terrace accommodating 200 covers. Additionally, there is a 20-cover private dining room.

Operated by the Bullock family for the past 16 years, Young’s is dedicated to preserving the pub’s values and original features. Simon Dodd, Young’s CEO, expressed delight in gaining the Bullock family’s trust, emphasizing the Ship Inn’s unique location and stellar reputation as a perfect fit for Young’s strategy to celebrate authentic British pubs.

Ed Jefferson from Colliers Hotels Agency, who assisted in the transaction, conveyed satisfaction in achieving the desired outcome for Lisa and Charles Bullock. He praised the Ship Inn’s excellent location and strong brand, cultivated under the Bullocks’ stewardship and supported by the local community, aligning seamlessly with Young’s ethos.

The Ship Inn will become Young’s fifth establishment in Devon, joining sister pubs Boathouse and the Seagate in North Devon, the Grove in Exmouth, and the City Gate and Double Locks in Exeter.