James Blunt takes over 170-year-old English pub linked to Bob Marley, U2 and Top Gear’s James May

SINGER-SONGWRITER James Blunt has taken over a 170-year-old English pub that has links to Bob Marley, U2 and Top Gear’s James May. The London spot is currently closed but will reopen under the new owners. The Carpenters Arms in Hammersmith has been bought by singer-songwriter James Blunt Credit: Google Blunt also owns another London pub, the Fox and Phesant in Chelsea Credit: Getty Images Musician James Blunt has bought the Carpenters Arms in Hammersmith from current owners, Wren Pubs. It’s not the first London pub acquired by the ‘1973’ singer as Blunt has also owned the Fox and Pheasant located in Chelsea since 2017. Sign up for the Money newsletter Thank you! The West London pub is currently closed while it undergoes the handover to new owners. A statement on The Carpeneter’s Arms website reads: “After two wonderful years as custodians of the much-loved Carpenter’s Arms, Wren Pubs is handing over the keys to James, Toby & the rest of The Fox & Pheasant team to begin an exciting new chapter. “We would like to thank everyone who has walked through our doors and welcomed us into this incredibly special corner of London.” While the pub may now boast a celebrity owner, it’s no stranger to famous faces. In an interview with The Standard, former Top Gear host and Hammersmith local, James May, said the “slightly more retro” spot was one of the best pubs in the borough. It is also located around the corner from the iconic 22 St Peter’s Square, the original home of the Island Record Offices, known for managing many stellar artists including Bob Marley and U2 – so the musicians may have ended up at The Carpenter’s Arms for a post-session pint. Most read in Money While under the ownership of Wren Pubs, who acquired the Hammersmith spot in July 2024, the site underwent a major refurb of the bar, private dining room and garden. Sales at the drinking spot doubled over the past two years, but now has been sold to Blunt in a “difficult decision”. Founder of Wren Pubs, Jack Greenall, did however say that they were “delighted” to be handing the pub over to “such excellent operators of one of the best pubs in West London”. He said: “This sale was a difficult decision for us, but we are so pleased with what we have achieved to date. “It has been an honour to play a role in such a wonderful community and getting to know the locals. He added that it felt like the “perfect moment” for new ownership and would be looking forward to see the pub continue “to receive the attention it deserves”. “I couldn’t think of a better team to continue its legacy,” he said. Wren Pubs’ focus will turn to its latest project in Sloane Square, as well as on its existing locations the Surprise and the Walmer Castle. The company is also “exploring further opportunities” with the idea to have bedrooms as part of their London spots. The 19th-century pub will reopen under the new owners, with Blunt set to work closely with Fox and Pheasant manager Toby Milne in overseeing operations. In response to the change in hands, Blunt commented: “It’s an honour to be the custodian of this beautiful and important local landmark. “I know how much it means to the residents, and I hope we can serve them as well as they have been by Jack and his team. I look forward to seeing you there!” Comment now