Balfour Winery’s pubs division Balfour Hospitality has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of two pubs in Kent, UK.

The freehold purchase comprises the Goudhurst Inn at Goudhurst and the Tickled Trout in West Farleigh.

The company has announced plans to invest in the pubs’ exterior renovations, introduce new menus and improve community access while installing new management teams.

The two venues are known for using local and seasonal produce and offer Balfour’s English wines alongside internationally renowned labels.

Boutique Hotelier quoted Balfour Hospitality operations director Lee Hart as saying: “At Balfour, we firmly believe there is still a role for pubs in the heart of their towns, serving local foods, beers and even wines.

“We love the areas around our pubs, and our teams are all firmly focused on connecting with their communities as a hub for all.”

The move comes at a critical time for the UK pub industry, which has seen more than 1,000 closures since 2022, including 90 in Kent alone.

Balfour's acquisition is set to secure the future of these establishments for the foreseeable future, bringing the total number of pubs under the company's management to ten.

In an announcement emphasising the value of the neighbourhood, Balfour announced the introduction of a "Locals' Discount" at their locations.

The initiative offers a 15% discount on food, drink and accommodation to residents living nearby.

The discount scheme applies to the Falcon in the Cotswolds, the Goudhurst Inn, the Ship Inn at Rye, the Swan in Forest Row, the Tickled Trout in West Farleigh, the Windmill in Hollingbourne and the Woolpack in Tenterden.