A family affair has ended in south Farnham as a pub has changed hands for the first time in more than 20 years.

An era has ended on the banks of The Bourne Stream as the Macready family have called time at The Bat & Ball.

Kit and Rachael Mathews now have their names above the door with the pair securing the freehold for an undisclosed price through Christie & Co.

The hostelry has been under the Macready ownership since father Kevin purchased the watering hole in 2003.

He handed over the running of the business to daughter Liz and son-in-law, Maffy Cank, in 2014 before they purchased it four years later. The pair built on its reputation as a “go-to pub” for locals with events like the Bat Fest Beer Festival cementing their standing in the south Farnham community.

The outgoing couple aren’t sure what they’re going to do “post Bat & Ball” but they’re definitely keen on a slower life.

Liz said: “We are hoping to buy a business that will still allow us to enjoy hospitality, but with more family time.

“Ideally a farmhouse with outbuildings for holiday rentals or a wedding venue.”

Kit and Rachael moved to Farnham in 2023 and are enthusiastic about becoming an “integral part of the community” as they raise their two daughters in the town.

They’re also pleased to maintain the tradition of family-ownership at the B&B, while their goal is to ensure the Bat & Ball remains a hub at the heart of the town and providing a place where “everyone feels at home”.

"We love a good pub and recognise its role as a unique and vital part of our society," Rachael said.

“We’re thrilled to take on this responsibility and look forward to serving our neighbours and friends,” said Kit.