Our Story…

In 2020, a group of local residents passionate about keeping the Kings Head at the heart of the community, met for the first time. After concerns were raised about the pub potentially being placed on the market, they wanted to understand how it could be preserved as the only remaining pub in the village (and an Asset of Community Value). After much research and discussion, it was agreed that if it were put up for sale, they would try to bring the Kings Head under community ownership. This dedicated team continued monitoring the situation over the next few years, preparing for when they might need to mobilise their plans.

Fast-forward to July 2024… the Kings Head was officially placed on the market, so now it was time for decisive action. With assistance from Plunkett UK, we incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) and officially registered an intent to bid for the pub with Wealden District Council.

Photo: Jim Holden

Photo: Jim Holden

During February and March 2025, we conducted a public consultation (including meetings and a survey) to determine if there was enough local support to make community-ownership of the Kings Head viable. The result was an overwhelming ‘yes’, with 96% of survey respondents saying they’d back a community bid.

With such a strong mandate, we decided to proceed. A huge amount of work has been required to prepare, including instructing a valuation survey, converting the CLG into Kings Head Community Benefit Society, registering with the Financial Conduct Authority, negotiating purchase terms and developing a five-year Business Plan.

In September 2025, we agreed purchase terms with the owner of the Kings Head and are now preparing to launch our Community Shares Offer, which will raise the bulk of the funds needed to buy the pub.

But this story can only end “happily ever after” with your support…

For community ownership of the Kings Head to become a reality, we need you to join us.

This is an exciting, once-in-a-generation opportunity to create something truly special. Every share purchased will be a stake in East Hoathly’s future. The future of a vibrant, resilient and cohesive village.

Find out about our vision for a community-owned Kings Head and read our Business Plan.

Be a part of the story. Be part of something bigger.

Together, let’s build a legacy we can all be proud of.

Photo: Jim Holden