Thomas Tripp in Lymington set to reopen – with a new name

ONE of the Lymington’s best-known pubs will be opening its doors again after being taken on by well-known local chef Joe Hibberd and his business partner Henry Fry.

Legendary live music venue the Thomas Tripp shut last year when then-landlord Jon Burdge stepped down after running the business for 21 years.

Seeing a window of opportunity, friends Joe and Henry took over the lease and have big plans for the pub, which is currently serving food from a pop-up kitchen in the garden before officially opening in November.

The pair went to Priestlands together and have been friends since they were 11. Speaking to the A&T, they revealed they will be changing the name of the pub and undergoing a full refurbishment.

Joe (29), who has worked at Carey’s Manor and Balmer Lawn Hotel in Brockenhurst, and Lainston House Hotel in Winchester, said there will be an emphasis on locally sourced, simple British food and craft beers from independent brewers.

“The pub will still operate between the two separate rooms, with the main bar in one and restaurant in the other,” he said. “Those in the bar area can enjoy snacks that pair well with a beer or glass of wine, like flat breads, whitebait, scotch eggs or sausage rolls.

“We’ll be focusing a lot on our traditional Sunday roasts, which will be served in both areas, and there will be lots of sharing dishes to choose from an ever-changing, seasonal menu.”

Henry, who handled promotions for various clubs in London including Fabric and Ministry of Sound, and most recently worked at Two Lights restaurant in Shoreditch, said he began looking for a change in direction when Covid lockdown hit earlier this year.

“I’ve been getting really into craft beers and wine lately,” said the 29-year-old. “And when the opportunity to acquire the Thomas Tripp presented itself we were determined to put our stamp on it.

“Although we’re taking on this new venture during difficult times, we’ve planned for all the worst-case scenarios and believe we can make a success of the business.

“One thing we’re both sure of is that in this country, no matter what happens, people will never stop wanting to go out to enjoy good food and drink.

“In fact, since the pandemic began, local, independent businesses have thrived, and if a national lockdown were imposed again, we have provisions for the off-sales of alcohol and would look to sell meal kits.”

Joe and Henry will also be working on the accommodation above the pub with the aim of renting it out through Airbnb next year.

They anticipate reopening the pub in Stanford Road around 15th November.

The Tripp made its name putting on top local bands and artists, including The Dodge Brothers and punk-rock band The Peeping Toms, formed back in 1982 by a group of ex-Lymington school boys.

Chris Bickle, director and surveyor in the Savills licenced leisure team, acted for the landlord on the disposal.