Publisher and teacher buy coaching inn near Bath

The Cross Keys, an historic coaching inn two miles from the Somerset town of Bath, has been bought by Helen Lacey and David Chaplin, a self-employed publisher and a part-time teacher.

The detached property in Midford Road, Combe Down, stands on an important crossroads on the old ecclesiastic route between Bath and Wells and the Bristol to Warminster Road.

Built from Bath stone and dating back to the early 18th century, the traditional pub and restaurant retains many period features such as original fireplaces, a bread oven and a stone staircase.

Along with lounge and public bars, it offers a 40-seat restaurant, large trade gardens, a detached barn, and three-bedroom owners' accommodation.

The Bristol office of Christie + Co sold the remaining 18 years of the leasehold off a guide price of £135,000 on behalf of Caroline and Mark Palmer who have run the business since 1988.

By Angela Frewin