Food & Hospitality · Chippenham
New landlords aim to secure long-term future for historic Dauntsey Lock pub
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
The Peterborough Arms is seeing a resurgence under new management, with landlords Alex Taylor and Sarah Matthew focusing on local engagement and community events.
A historic Wiltshire pub, once feared lost to the challenges of rural isolation, is finding a new lease of life under its latest management team. The Peterborough Arms at Dauntsey Lock, owned by the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust, has undergone a significant transformation since new landlords Alex Taylor and Sarah Matthew took the helm in early September.
The pub faced a turbulent period in recent years, previously earning the nickname 'the pub at the end of the world' due to the decline in footfall caused by the lengthy closure of the B4069 at Lyneham Banks. With that major route finally reopened last year, the venue is now positioning itself once again as a vital hub for the local community.
Mr Taylor, who brings three decades of experience working in Wiltshire kitchens, and Ms Matthew, who transitioned into the trade from a career in childcare, have been working to tailor the venue to local needs. The pair have focused on a simple, high-quality food offering, notably seeing success with their Sunday roasts, which frequently serve up to 100 diners.
Reflecting on their approach, Mr Taylor said: 'If you do the simple things right, you are on to a winner. It is not going to rock the world, but if you come here you will have a good meal, good drink, good chat. And that is what people want.'
The management team has emphasised that their commitment to the pub is long-term, intending to remain at the helm until retirement. This stability has already begun to manifest in the way they manage the business, with the pair actively listening to customer requests—such as sourcing specific wines—to improve the visitor experience.
Beyond dining, the venue is acting as a centre for local social activity. It continues to serve as the base for several skittle teams and hosts a weekly coffee morning. The calendar is also filling up with a range of entertainment, including live music, 'sip and paint' sessions, and monthly pub quizzes which have recently attracted significant interest.
Looking ahead, the team has announced a variety of upcoming events for the local area:
Psychic Supper: A forthcoming dinner event featuring a medium.
Craft Fair: The pub will host a 20-stall craft market on December 5.
While the initial months have been successful, the landlords remain focused on gradual improvement. Ms Matthew added: 'I am proud of the pub and what we have achieved so far. It has been a big life change, but I have really enjoyed it.' The couple intends to continue refining their food and drink offering as their customer base grows.
Source: Wiltshire Times — Chippenham · View original