Young’s, a prominent pub operator, has agreed to acquire Cubitt House, a high-end pub group, in a move to expand its presence in London’s upscale hospitality market. The transaction is valued at £30 million and includes nine pubs located in affluent west London neighborhoods such as Belgravia and Chelsea.

The deal, expected to be finalized on April 22, will add to Young’s existing portfolio of more than 280 pubs with accommodation across London and the south of England. The company indicated that the acquisition would be financed through its current banking facilities and aligns with its strategic objective to grow its footprint in London by operating well-invested venues in premium locations.

Cubitt House, established in 2005 by Stefan Turnbull and Barry Hirst, has built a reputation as an upscale gastropub operator. Its outlets, including The Thomas Cubitt and the Orange, are popular among high-profile clientele such as members of the British royal family, celebrities, and business elites. Locations have also served as social hubs and filming sites for the Channel 4 reality series Made in Chelsea, enhancing their cultural cachet.

The group experienced significant development after a majority stake was sold in 2015 to a private investor group led by Manjit Dale, a founding partner at private equity firm TDR Capital. Management was taken over in 2021 by Sam and Georgie Pearman, founders of hospitality group the Lucky Onion, who helped drive the business’s growth during this period.

Young’s chief executive Simon Dodd has previously emphasized the company’s interest in expanding through the acquisition of smaller pub groups. While Cubitt House’s venues tend to emphasize gastropub-style menus and cater to an upscale clientele, Young’s traditional portfolio focuses more on classic pub fare across a broader geographic area.

Following the announcement, Young’s shares rose by 6%, reflecting investor confidence in the expansion strategy. The company’s foray into the luxury segment represents a notable shift beyond its traditional “pies-and-pints” image, positioning it to capitalize on the premium London hospitality market.