A LANDMARK Somerset pub has been sold.

The Bridge Inn at Dulverton, which dates back to 1845, has been bought by the Cornish St Austell Brewery.

Previous owners, Kenny and Rachel McDonald, had leased the Bridge Inn since 2006 and purchased the freehold in 2012, during which time they extensively renovated the pub to an excellent standard throughout and built up a strong reputation for its food offering.

Kenny and Rachel have a wealth of experience in all aspects of hospitality, having operated bars in Bristol and London before moving to Exmoor and starting a young family.

But, after 12 years running The Bridge Inn, they are now looking to pursue other interests.

“It's been an absolute pleasure running The Bridge Inn for the last 12 and a half years," they said.

"We're delighted that St Austell are taking it on and know that it will be in good hands. We wish them and their new tenant all the best for the future."

Steve Worrall, retail director at St Austell, said: "We’re delighted to add The Bridge Inn to our tenanted pub estate, it’s a fantastic property and our first in Exmoor National Park.

"Having been managed so well for over 12 years by Kenny and Rachel McDonald, The Bridge Inn is a wonderful opportunity for the new tenant, Andrew Cummings.

"The Bridge Inn benefits from being in one of the most beautiful locations in the UK – a great place to live and work.

"Naturally, it can be hard work, but our tenancies are ideal for those with a passion for hospitality and a strong head for business."

Stephen Champion, associate director at Christie & Co, who handled the sale, added: "We are delighted to have brokered the sale of this fantastic Exmoor pub on behalf of Kenny and Rachel. Christie & Co carried out an extensive confidential marketing campaign, generating multiple expressions of interest and offers from a variety of buyers.

"We wish Kenny and Rachel all the best with their future projects and look forward to meeting St Austell’s new tenant soon."