New owners have taken over the Sidmouth Arms in Upottery. 

Martin Phillips signed over the freehold of the pub on Friday, March 31 from national brewery chain StoneGate. 

Almost 65 years ago George Phillips, Martin's great great uncle fell ill and put the pub on the market, as far as the family were aware it was then bought by the Whitbread family and has been owned various brewery chains until now.

The freehold has been signed and the pub will be family owned once more. The pub has a long history with the family and the village.

Martin previously worked in the building trade, before leaving during the Covid-19 pandemic to pursue something different.

He said he has always wondered what it be like to run a pub but never thought he would actually end up owning and running one. Martin has lived in Upottery all his life. 

He had no idea of the history of the Phillips family owning the pub, and only realised when talking to his Auntie who told him about the family history of the pub.

Martin Phillips told the Herald: "In the current climate I'm sure most will think I'm mad but with the customers and staff we have I'm confident we can continue to go from strength to strength and secure the future of the pub for this amazing village for years to come. Thank you all for your support, without you we wouldn't have a pub to run."

The Sidmouth Arms is popular with the locals and visitors, located right in the centre of the village of Upottery. The pub serves home cooked food and a selection of alcoholic beverages on tap including Devon Red cider and Otter Ales for punters.

The Sidmouth Arms got its name from Lord Sidmouth, who owned the land surrounding the pub, he owned a Manor House just across the road the pub and most other buildings in Upottery were all part of his estate. 

For more information about the Sidmouth Arms in Upottery call 01404 861252.