Dorset pub takes Chickpea Group to 10 sites

An expanding south west pub company will soon be operating 10 sites, after acquiring its first venue in the county of Dorset.

Chickpea Group, led by brother and sister Ethan and Jordan Davids, and co-founder Tommy Tullis, has taken on The King’s Arms in Shaftesbury, a small market town in north Dorset. 

The Hall & Woodhouse pub itself dates back to the 17th century, including period features and a large open fireplace. The Chickpea team have been busy working on a full refit of the space, redecorating by adding a colour palette of deep greens and reds, handmade blinds, tables, chairs and soft furnishings. 

With The Manor House in Ditcheat also set to open soon, The King's Arms will take Chickpea's estate to 10 venues, including its pizza brand restaurant, Nole.

On reopening, The King’s Arms will serve a simple menu of Chickpea Group ‘pub bangers’ across its 100-cover dining space. 

"The Kings Arms has all the characteristics of a great pub: a roaring fire, long bar, and plenty of space," says Ethan. "We think our model will work nicely there and we’re looking forward to swinging the doors back open after a particularly long period of closure. See you at the bar." 

To one side of the pub is a long, adjoining room which was previously used as a games area with pool table. This space will be redesigned, with a separate entrance and used as a revolving pop-up concept, offering a chance for the Chickpea team to bring in seasonal special guests, retail offerings and more. 

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