Pub Manager — The Ancient Mariner, Old Hunstanton

From £38,000 + Tronc + Bonus | Full Time

Set just behind the dunes in Old Hunstanton, The Ancient Mariner is a much‑loved coastal pub with real character — familiar to locals, trusted by regulars and a welcome retreat for thousands of seasonal visitors. Known for great classic pub food, great beer and relaxed coastal hospitality, it’s a place that comes alive in summer and slows down beautifully in winter.

It is now in renovation ahead of the summer season, it’s an exciting moment to join. With a refreshed look, strong footfall, and huge demand during peak months, this is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in shaping the next chapter of a well‑loved coastal pub.

We’re looking for a Pub Manager who brings that grounded, hands‑on innkeeper mentality — someone who leads from the front, sets the tone and creates the kind of atmosphere people return for.

What the Role’s All About…

As Pub Manager, you’ll set the pace every day — welcoming guests, supporting your teams and ensuring the Ancient Mariner feels warm, organised and well‑run.

You’ll:

• Lead and support FOH and BOH teams with confidence

• Work closely with your Head Chef to deliver pace, consistency and great pub food

• Create a friendly, dependable guest experience year‑round

• Manage day‑to‑day operations from cellar to terrace to letting rooms

• Recruit, train and develop a capable, motivated team

• Build strong relationships within the local community

• Play a key role in shaping the pub as it reopens and evolves through the seasons

About You…

You’re a supportive, hands‑on leader who knows how to make a busy seaside pub feel organised, welcoming and well looked after. You thrive in a high‑footfall coastal environment and bring calm, presence and pride to your pub.

You’ll bring:

• Experience leading a food‑led pub, inn or similar venue

• A guest‑first mindset backed by solid commercial judgement

• Confidence managing pace in busy seasonal periods

• Pride in your pub and presence in your community

• Ideally, experience opening or relaunching a venue

Benefits & Perks

• Performance‑based bonus scheme

• Team & individual incentive trips

• 50% discount on food across all Chestnut pubs

• Overnight stays from £75

• Friends & Family perks

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Wagestream access

• Flexible hours

• Accredited training & development

Why Join Chestnut?

As part of the Chestnut family, the Ancient Mariner benefits from strong heritage, community support and a commitment to thoughtful, people‑first hospitality. With refurbishment completing soon, you’ll step into a refreshed property with huge potential ahead of a busy season — and the support to make it feel like your own.

Think this sounds like the right fit?

Apply today — we’d love to hear from you.