Urban Pubs and Bars acquires Albion and East

Urban Pubs and Bars has officially acquired the Albion and East group, adding four London venues to its portfolio as it continues to expand across the capital.

The deal includes Teatro Hall in Ealing, Canova Hall in Brixton, Botanica Hall in Clapham Junction, and Serata Hall in the City of London. All existing Albion and East staff will transfer to Urban Pubs and Bars as part of the deal.

The move follows a series of recent acquisitions and openings since May 2025, including St John’s Tavern in Archway, the Marlborough Head in Covent Garden, the Bald Faced Stag in East Finchley, the Highbury Barn Tavern, and Bat and Ball in Covent Garden.

Urban Pubs and Bars previously bought Martello Hall from Albion and East in January, reopening the site as The London Fields in February after a refurbishment.

The company said trading across its business remains “materially ahead of the market”, with like-for-like sales up 8.7% since the start of the financial year and annual sales approaching £100m.

Chris Hill, managing director of Urban Pubs and Bars, said: “Albion and East is a business we’ve long admired. Their venues share our passion for great design, fresh, high-quality food and drink, and genuine neighbourhood hospitality. 

“We’re delighted to welcome their teams into the Urban family and look forward to supporting these outstanding venues through their next chapter.”

Founded by Malc Heap and Nick Pring, Urban Pubs and Bars is backed by Davidson Kempner and Global Mutual. The group operates a collection of pubs, bars and restaurants across London.