A planning application has been submitted to convert the Steamer Trading Cookshop location from retail back into “a restaurant and bar “. Many locals will have fond memories of this establishment as The Crown pub, and the application covers both the lower floor and the first floor where the Assembly Room restaurant was, and more recently the Pop Up Picture House.
The application has been made by Marston’s, and MyMarlow has conducted our usual thorough investigations into what we might expect, as detailed below. Based on what we have seen – it all looks very exciting!
*caveat – This article is not rumour, or speculation – but based entirely on the facts of the planning document. This planning application has yet to be approved…. and plans can change!
What about Steamer Trading?
They have plans to remain in town if possible – we will have firmer news on that in due course…..
Who are Marston’s?
Marston’s, the company behind the plans, is a huge brewery and pub operator – they own over 1,700 pubs, and brands include the well known “Pitcher & Piano“. Beers brewed include Brakspears – originally from Henley, but now brewed at the Wychwood Brewery.
What do they have planned for Marlow?
It will perhaps not be a surprise the the plans for Marlow are at the very top, premium end of Marston’s range. They have a subsidiary called “Revere Pub Company” which operates “… a collection of independent pubs, bars, restaurants …. Each site combines the period features of their structures with modern, contemporary design features, which makes for a truly unique setting for any occasion and give your true comfort.”
The actual name to be used for the new venue in Marlow will be….. drumroll please……. ‘The Lost and Found’!
The Lost and Found (the-lostandfound.co.uk) is very much a premium restaurant and bar brand, with 3 sites at present – and a vibe very much like that of The Botanist bar on West Street, from what we can see.
Any news on the proposed interior layout?
Yes! Above are a couple of images from existing Lost and Found sites in Birmingham and Leeds. Very different – but pretty classy, and an indication of the level of interior we might expect.
Regarding the specific plans from Marlow, there will be quite a few different spaces and bars….
- Ground floor will be a mixed bar and restaurant area,
- a reception and bar would be right in front of you as you walk in the door
- Most of the existing retail space will be used for seating/dining space – except the section at the far back, on the right – where they sell crockery now.
- The main bar and servery will be in the area on the right where the shop currently sells Nespresso machines(!) etc . Back from here, on the left, a ‘secret bar’ with “sliding bookcase walls” will be used for private bookings and parties.
- First floor (the Assembly Room)
- The main Assembly Room will not be changed structurally, and will be formal dining space
- An external terrace would be created at the rear of the first floor, on the left – just beyond where the toilets are, if you are familiar with the current layout.
- Opposite the terrace will be more seating inside The Orangery, with its own bar.
What about the food and drink
Given the ever increasing reputation Marlow has for quality food offerings , it won’t be a surprise that the website states “A premium food and drinks offer is at the heart of the experience from Josper charcoal-cooked steaks to wood fired pizzas or smoked meats to flavoursome burgers; all our food is cooked fresh in house. Whilst the drinks range is crafted for the discerning drinker in mind; from theatrical cocktails to craft beers and boutique wines we have something for everyone.”
What next?
If planning is approved, and timescales become clearer – we will bring you much more detail on what we can expect from this major development at the heart of Marlow!