History – The Holly Bush

Founded in around 1641, in the reign of Charles I, The Holly Bush Pub is amongst the oldest pubs in Britain. For many year it was a traditional farm pub with a rich history. The thatched main building is set back from the road and its distinctive frontage has changed very little over the centuries. Its grade II listed status and location within the Bartington conservation area recognises this unique historic pub.

As well as the pub garden, there is also a rare heritage orchard, one of the last in Cheshire.

The Holly Bush has hosted many local social activities from Steam Rallies to Village fetes

COWAP FAMILY – 1787 to 1990

Located in the Bartington conservation area, The Holly Bush was originally a working farm house pub with the licence dating back to the 1600s, making it possibly the oldest pub in Cheshire. Originally part of Lord Leigh’s estate, direct descendants of the Cowap Family lived and worked in the pub from 1787 to 1990.

GREENALL WHITNEY – 1918 to 1990

The pub was purchased by Greenall Whitley in 1918, the Cowap family continued to run the pub and farm until 1990 when Greenall Whitley PLC applied to the Vale Royal Planning for consent for change of use from a pub to a private dwelling.

SAVE THE HOLLY BUSH – ROUND ONE – 1990 to 1991

In response to Greenall’s application to convert the pub to a private dwelling and with support from over 3500 members of the local community, a successful campaign was launched and won to save The Holly Bush.

BARRY LLOYD – 1991 to 2021

Barry Lloyd and family purchased and successfully ran the pub for nearly 30 years. Serving home cooked meals, originally prepared in the domestic kitchen in flat above the pub, before building the new kitchen and dinning rooms that exist today. During Barry’s ownership the Barns and Granary were converted to B&B accommodation.

SAVE THE HOLLY BUSH – ROUND TWO – 2021

In May 2021 the pub was purchased by a developer who is intent on splitting the various assets and selling them for a quick profit.

With the help of the community, Local and Parish councils, it is our intension to fight yet another successful campaign to save this historic pub from closure. But we need help, please contact us if you would like to help in our campaign.