Bridport: Lord Nelson pub opens under new ownership

James Entwisle, 42 and Edward de Chazal, 58 are embarking on a completely new career path by entering the pub trade and taking over the Lord Nelson Hotel in East Street.

James Entwisle (left) and Edward de Chazal (right) (Image: Hollie Carr)

Edward is a former English teacher and has taught English across the globe, whereas James has some former involvement in the hospitality industry having worked at the Bestival music festival on the Isle of Wight.

James explained that the pair decided to get into partnership as they both ‘lived in Lulworth and knew each other for a few years through the local community.’

The pub, owned by Palmers Brewery, was previously run by Nicole Gibson, a former actor and model who took it over last year after moving to Bridport.

As reported, Nicole is now embarking on a new business venture of her own just up the road on East Street, where she plans to open a wine bar called 'The Colmer' after Colmer's Hill.

Edward said: “It’s our business and we will go above and beyond. It is really hard work, but as it’s our own, we own our success and any failures – we hope it’s a lot of success.”

He added: “This is a wonderful part of the world and by starting our own business, it’s a great sector to be in.”

So far, they have created one new job in the town which was taken up by a local woman and are looking to hire another person in the summer.

Edward's son will also be coming on board as a member of the team as a pot washer during the summer.

The bar area (Image: Hollie Carr)

With regard to the cost-of-living crisis and current economic climate, the new publicans have noted that it is ‘very much a concern,’ however, they believe that ‘the market finds its equilibrium.’

The pair re-opened the doors to the Lord Neslon on Friday, April 12 to a ‘really supportive and welcoming crowd.’

At present, the venue has a ‘fully stocked bar’ full of beer, cider and ales as well as spirits and soft drinks, and there are also plans in the near future to serve food.

Seating area (Image: Hollie Carr)

Once the kitchen is up and running, the pair intend to offer a range of ‘themed food nights', showcasing ‘cuisine from different regions’ as both of them have worked abroad and want to share these flavours with visitors to the pub.

The pub also has three rooms above where guests can stay, and in the future, there will be a skittles alley, live music events, and community focused events.

The (in progress) beer garden (Image: Hollie Carr)

The duo shared their ‘gratitude’ to former landlady Nicole Gibson who left the pub in a ‘good way,’ wishing her the best of luck on her new business venture at The Colmer.