Community pub receives significant investment from independent brewer Hall & Woodhouse
Hall & Woodhouse (H&W) has appointed Adam Morriss and Adam Norris as its new business partners (tenants) to operate The Lord Nelson on Poole Quay.
Adam Morriss worked closely with the pub’s previous business partner, Anna Doyle, who successfully ran The Lord Nelson for 20 years before retiring in October 2024. The pub closed for six weeks between mid-January and March to undergo an extensive renovation.
Family-owned H&W has invested over £300,000 into transforming The Lord Nelson with a fresh new look and feel. Inside, the pub has been fully redecorated with updated furniture and a brighter colour scheme. Trinkets from the last 20 years have been incorporated into the new décor to celebrate and champion the pub’s rich history.
Mark James, property director at Hall & Woodhouse, said, “The Lord Nelson is a famous Poole pub with a rich history. When investing in the pub, it was important that we balanced updating its facilities so it is fit for the future without losing what has always made it special. The refurbishment has created an excellent platform for our business partners to start their next venture.”
A new central bar area is now in place to extend the original dining area with an additional 30 covers and gives direct access to the new courtyard. The outside courtyard features planting and festoon lighting, creating a year-round space for guests to use.
Additionally, a new modern kitchen has allowed the new business partners to enhance the pub’s food offering and extend its food service throughout the day.
The Lord Nelson is well known in the community for its live entertainment and is a popular music venue for local artists. Adam Morris explained, “We are honoured to be trusted as the new guardians of The Lord Nelson. I first started working with Anna in 2004 and have seen The Nelson grow into the much-loved pub that it is today. We want to build on its terrific reputation that Anna created on Poole Quay and provide even more live music, delicious food, and entertainment for our guests.”
Adam Morriss has worked in the hospitality sector for over 20 years, having previously ran the local Soho Bar & Kitchen in Poole. Adam met his business partner Adam Norris during his time running Soho Bar. Adam Norris also brings with him more than two decades of experience in the industry.
Adam Morriss added: “I am a firm believer in being in the right place at the right time, and when Anna asked if I would take over the reins of The Lord Nelson, I had to say yes. I am very grateful for the guidance Hall & Woodhouse has provided since our return to the Business Partner estate. It’s so reassuring to have the business’ backing.
“I am so proud of what we have achieved during our six-week refurbishment and can’t wait to see our guests’ reaction. Whether you’re after a cosy catch-up with friends, a hearty meal to enjoy with family, or want to listen to some rock classics, The Lord Nelson has something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming back our treasured guests and meeting some new faces.”
The Lord Nelson is open seven days a week from 9am until late, and food is served daily from 9am to 9pm. Please visit www.thelordnelsonpoole.co.uk to view the new menu or call 01202 804101 to reserve a table. Follow @thelordnelsonpoole on Facebook for information on all the latest events and live entertainment.
Hall & Woodhouse is an independent Dorset family company that brews award-winning Badger Ales and Outland Beers and runs an estate of high-quality pubs across the south of England.
For information about Hall & Woodhouse and its pub estate across the south, see: www.hall-woodhouse.co.uk .
