The Bat & Ball Pub in Farnham sold and welcomes new local owners

This popular semi-destination pub/restaurant has been under the ownership of the Macready family for over twenty years, firstly by father Kevin, who purchased the pub in 2003, and on his retirement in 2014 he handed over the running of the business to his daughter Liz and son-in-law Maffy Cank, who purchased the business in 2018. They continued to build on its success and reputation as the “go-to pub” for local residents, as well as the wider community of Farnham and surrounding villages and towns.  During this time, the pub was well-known for supporting the local community and hosting events such as its own annual “Bat Fest” Beer Festival.

Neil Morgan, Senior Director at Christie & Co who handled the sale, said “I have known the Macready family for over twenty years, having first met Kevin and his wife Sally in 2002 when I handled the sale of the Woolpack public house in Elstead on his behalf, and in 2003 I sold The Bat & Ball to him on behalf of the then owners.

It was a real pleasure to once again advise and manage the sale of the pub, this time for Liz and Maffy.  There were a number of interested parties in the pub, from potential buyers local and afar. I have no doubt the pub is in great hands and as a regular customer, I can’t wait to see what Kit and Rachael’s plans are for The Bat & Ball.”

Liz commented: “Regarding what we are going to do post-Bat & Ball, that is unsure, however we know we want to enjoy a slower life and are hoping to buy a business that will still allow us to enjoy hospitality but with more family time, ideally a farmhouse with outbuildings for holiday rentals or a wedding venue.  Neil at Christie & Co was great, always on the end of the phone and always keen to help us in any way he could to get us across the line.  His advice was invaluable.”

The Bat & Ball has been sold to new owners Kit and Rachael Mathews, a family dedicated to continuing the beloved tradition of this local pub. The Mathews, who moved to Farnham just over a year ago, are enthusiastic about becoming an integral part of the community, especially as they raise their two young daughters in the town. 

Having met while working in hospitality, Kit and Rachael understand the importance of delivering exceptional service and creating a welcoming atmosphere. "We love a good pub and recognise its role as a unique and vital part of our society," Rachael shared. "Our goal is to ensure The Bat & Ball remains a hub at the heart of the town." 

With a background that also includes over a decade in the international emergency response industry and managing a leading audio production studio, the Mathews bring valuable experience and skills to this new venture. They are committed to enhancing the pub’s reputation as a gathering place for the community, fostering connections, and hosting events that bring people together. “We’re thrilled to take on this responsibility and look forward to serving our neighbours and friends,” said Kit. “Our vision is to create an inviting space where, across the generations, everyone feels at home.” The Mathews invite the community to join them in celebrating this new chapter for The Bat & Ball, with plans for upcoming events and initiatives that honour the pub’s legacy while embracing new ideas.

The Bat & Ball freehold was sold at an undisclosed price.

For further information on this press release, contact:
Jasmine Davis, Corporate Communications Manager
P: 07561 115179
E: jasmine.davis@christie.com

Contact the agent:
Neil Morgan, Senior Director – Pubs & Restaurants
P: +44 7831 101 260
E: neil.morgan@christie.com

Visit our Business Search page to find out more about current listings.