James Blunt has become the proud owner of a 170-year-old English pub that has links to Bob Marley, U2, and Top Gear presenter James May. The London hotspot is currently closed to the public, but will reopen later this year under the new owners. The beloved singer-songwriter purchased the Carpenter's Arms in Hammersmith from current owners, Wren Pubs. But this isn't the only London public house the You're Beautiful hitmaker owns.

He has also owned the Fox and Pheasant, located in the heart of Chelsea, since 2017. The West London pub is currently closed while it exchanges hands. A statement on The Carpenter's Arms website confirmed the exciting news online.

It reads: "After two wonderful years as custodians of the much-loved Carpenter's Arms, Wren Pubs is handing over the keys to James, Toby & the rest of The Fox & Pheasant team to begin an exciting new chapter.

"We would like to thank everyone who has walked through our doors and welcomed us into this incredibly special corner of London." While the pub boasts a new celebrity owner, the watering hole is no stranger to famous faces.

In a recent interview with The Standard, former Top Gear host and Hammersmith local, James May, named the Carpenter's Arms one of the best pubs in the borough and celebrated its "slightly more retro" vibe. It is also situated just around the corner from the iconic 22 St Peter's Square, the original home of the Island Record Offices.

The famous music studios are known for managing some of the biggest names in the industry, including artists such as Bob Marley and U2, meaning the musicians may have stumbled into The Carpenter's Arms for a post-session pint. While under the ownership of Wren Pubs, who took over the Hammersmith spot in July 2024, the site underwent a major refurbishment of the bar, private dining room and garden space.

Sales at the drinking spot have doubled over the past two years, despite the declining economy, prompting the previous owners to make a "difficult decision" to put the pub up for sale. Founder of Wren Pubs, Jack Greenall, did, however, say they were "delighted" to be handing over the property to "such excellent operators of one of the best pubs in West London."

He said: "This sale was a difficult decision for us, but we are so pleased with what we have achieved to date. It has been an honour to play a role in such a wonderful community and to get to know the locals."

He added that it felt like the "perfect moment" for new ownership and would be looking forward to seeing the pub continue "to receive the attention it deserves". "I couldn't think of a better team to continue its legacy."