The Carpenter's Arms Sold to James Blunt

'You're Beautiful' singer purchases historic pub on Black Lion Lane

Left: James Blunt. Right: The Carpenter's Arms

July 23, 2026

The Carpenter’s Arms, the much-loved nineteenth-century pub on Black Lion Lane near St Peter’s Square, has been bought by the musician James Blunt best known for his hit song 'You're Beautiful'.

He officially took ownership from Wren Pubs this Thursday (23 July) to bring the number of pubs he owns to two along with The Fox and Pheasant in Chelsea. Operations at the Hammersmith pub will be overseen by Toby Milne.

The sale marks the end of a two-year chapter for the company, founded by publican Jack Greenall, who acquired the freehold of The Carpenter’s Arms in July 2024. Under Wren’s stewardship, the pub underwent a sensitive refurbishment, including upgrades to the bar, the first-floor private dining room and the garden. Sales doubled during this period, and the pub regained a strong local following.

Greenall said the decision to sell had not been easy. “We are delighted to be handing over The Carpenter’s Arms to such excellent operators of one of the best pubs in West London. 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 said. “Having worked hard to bring this beloved venue back to life, it felt like the perfect moment to pass the pub into new ownership. I couldn’t think of a better team to continue its legacy.”

Wren Pubs will now focus on its other venues — The Surprise in Chelsea and The Walmer Castle in Notting Hill — as well as its newest acquisition at 7 Sloane Square, announced earlier this year.

Pub specialist broker James Grimes of AG&G, who handled the sale, said it had been “a privilege” to act for Wren Pubs, adding that the deal had been managed with “confidentiality and sensitivities” throughout.

Blunt said he was honoured to take on the historic pub. “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!”

The Carpenter’s Arms dates back to 1871 and has long been part of the cultural fabric of the area. Musicians from nearby Island Records were once regulars, and the pub has retained its reputation as a neighbourhood favourite.

Its recent closure “until further notice,” announced on 17 July, prompted speculation among locals. Staff had told regulars that a major refurbishment was planned, but Google listings soon marked the pub as permanently closed, and Wren Pubs did not respond to requests for clarification. This Thursday’s announcement confirms that the closure was part of the transition to new ownership.

Wren Pubs had previously described the Carpenter’s Arms and its sister pub, The Walmer Castle, as central to its long-term investment strategy. The group reported turnover exceeding £10 million across its three venues last year.