03/03/2026
Lancaster Brewery Confirms Sale of The Palatine, Morecambe
Lancaster Brewery has confirmed the sale of The Palatine in Morecambe, with the venue transferring to Lee and Chris Taylor-Hone on 31st March.
The brewery bought the pub in 2008 and carried out a full refurbishment from cellar to the top floor accommodation. At the time, it became one of the first pubs in Morecambe to offer a wide range of quality cask beers, helping raise the bar for choice in the town.
Around ten years ago the site moved from managed operation to tenancy and since then, a number of strong operators have brought their own style and character to the pub.
In 2025 Lancaster Brewery took the decision to focus fully on its managed estate and place The Palatine on the market. The sale is now progressing, with the baton passing in the first week of April.
Managing Director Phil Simpson said:
“We’ve loved owning and operating The Palatine. It’s given us great beers, great pizzas, great bands and some memorable nights. Now feels like the right moment to pass it on. Chris and Lee are experienced operators who will invest, raise standards and bring new life to both the pub and the town.”
Phil added that special thanks go to current tenants Marianne and Richard, who will bid a fond farewell after the past twelve months.
“They’ve kept the bar in beautiful condition and run a tight ship. We’re grateful for the care and professionalism they’ve shown during their time at The Palatine.”
Lee and Chris bring more than 25 years of hospitality experience. Over the past five years they have restored and developed two top rated guest houses in Blackpool and launched Rendezvous Bar, now one of the most popular LGBTQ+ venues in Blackpool’s Rainbow Quarter.
Having spent much of their leisure time over the past 18 months in Morecambe and Heysham, they say buying their favourite pub was an opportunity not to be missed.
The Palatine will become an independently owned free house, retaining its historic name and traditional feel. The strong relationship with Lancaster Brewery will continue, with Lancaster beers remaining on the bar alongside a wider range of visiting and local cask ales and craft beers.
Plans include a lively weekend entertainment schedule, midweek events shaped by customers, continued home cooked food, and the introduction of a coffee, cake and lunchtime menu.
Lee and Chris are keen to play an active role in the community, supporting local fundraisers and events for charities including Out in the Bay. They also hope to be involved with Morecambe and Lancaster Pride, Prom Fest and the Morecambe Music Festival, along with other appropriate events. Their Blackpool businesses will continue to operate as normal, and they are delighted that Steven and Kyan, who have worked at The Palatine over the past year, have agreed to stay on.
Lancaster Brewery thanks the tenants, customers and community for their support over the past 17 years and wishes the new owners every success.
