Former British tennis star Tim Henman, along with his wife Lucy and three other families, saved a historic Grade II-listed pub in Oxfordshire from closure. The pub, formerly known as The Chequers, is located in the village of Aston Tirrold and dates back to the 15th century. Henman, who earned an estimated £7 million in prize money during his professional career, stepped in to rescue the struggling establishment after the pandemic.
Renovation and New Concept
The group purchased the freehold and undertook a major renovation project that lasted 10 months. They recruited renowned French chef Olivier Bouet to run the kitchen, and the pub was rebranded as Olivier at the Chequers. Bouet's wife, Stephanie, confirmed the Henmans' involvement in October 2022, stating: "A small group of investors, including the Henmans, purchased the freehold of the pub. Olivier and myself are running the operations."
Henman's Personal Connection
Henman has spoken openly about his passion for the pub. On Andy Roddick's podcast "Served Media," he said: "We, and three other families, bought the pub in our village, and that is, without doubt, the best thing I've ever been involved in." He added: "We have three other partners, two of them live in our village, one is a French chef. He's been in the trade for 30 years and he runs the pub. We bought it about four years ago and did a big renovation job. It's called Olivier at the Chequers."
A Hub for Wine and Community
Henman, a known wine enthusiast, told Country Life in July 2024: "I don't know when I first had a taste of wine, but I think I was quite young. There is nothing I enjoy more than being with family and friends sharing good food and good wine." He added: "About three years ago, a small group of us bought the pub in Aston Tirrold, our village in south Oxfordshire. After planning applications and 10 months of renovations, Olivier at the Chequers is up and running and is being very well supported by the local community. If I'm not at home, you will know where to find me."
In a 2009 interview with The Telegraph, Henman revealed: "I'm always in charge of booze. I used to enjoy the occasional beer or glass of wine when I played professionally, but now I can have two or three more. That's a reflection of my whole life. Since I've stopped playing, there's been an amazing sense of freedom. I love it." He later told the same publication in 2014: "I mostly drink French wines. There's a really good pub in the village where I live called the Sweet Olive. It's run by two French guys who have a big interest in wines and have helped me try lots of different ones. I've got my own cellar at home."
Positive Reviews
The pub has received acclaim, including a four-star review from The Telegraph in October 2024, which praised its "seriously wonderful wine list." The establishment blends traditional brickwork and colorful gardens with a contemporary interior, offering a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
