A village pub is set for a changing of the guard after the couple behind it announced they will be stepping away from life behind the bar.
Carolyn and Woody, who run The Kings Arms in South Zeal, said they had made the “difficult decision” to leave the pub at the end of January 2027.
They said they were sharing the news now, in June, so existing bookings could go ahead as planned and to allow time to find “the right new custodians” for the pub.
In a statement, they said: “It’s with a heavy heart that we share some news with you all.
“After much thought, we have made the difficult decision that we will be leaving The Kings Arms at the end of January 2027.”
They added: “The Kings Arms is a fantastic pub — full of life, character, and incredible support from this community.
“That’s exactly why we want to do this properly, giving it the best chance to continue thriving long after we’ve gone.”
Carolyn and Woody said the decision had not been easy, describing both the positives and challenges of raising their sons at the pub.
They said: “There are so many positives to bringing up our boys here — the community, the sense of belonging, the endless supply of chocolate!
“But there are challenges too: interrupted bedtimes, cancelled plans, missed weekends, and the constant difficulty of stepping away or planning time as a family.
“We feel the time is right to experience a more ‘normal’ family life while the boys are still young.”
The couple said they would miss being at the heart of village life, including “the chats, the laughter, the busy nights” and helping out where they could.
They said: “We’ve had a fantastic run, and we’re incredibly grateful for all the support you’ve shown us over the years, as staff, customers, friends and family.”
They said they would support and encourage new tenants over the coming months to help ensure The Kings Arms continues.
For now, the couple said it would remain “very much business as usual”.
They added: “We look forward to many more great times together before we say goodbye.”
