25 Feb 26
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Industry Insights
The Lion and Lamb Yard, a mixed-use retail courtyard anchored by Waitrose in Farnham town centre, has been acquired by Jamestown on behalf of a European investor. The property will be managed by Jamestown, which has an established track record in curating and managing historic mixed-use environments.
Jamestown has confirmed to the Farnham Herald that it intends to retain the character of the site while implementing targeted improvements, beginning with the letting of two vacant retail units and enhancements to the public realm.
Nick Reeve, partner at Curchod & Co in Farnham, said: “This acquisition is a positive signal for Farnham and the wider Surrey retail market. Institutional investor appetite for well-managed, community-anchored retail destinations has been building steadily, and Lion and Lamb Yard is precisely the type of asset that attracts that attention. Jamestown’s specialism in historic mixed-use environments tells you a great deal about its intentions to retain the character of the scheme while delivering targeted improvements.”
His colleague, Matthew Munday, added: “Lion and Lamb Yard has always punched above its weight as a retail destination. It offers something that out-of-town retail parks cannot replicate: a genuine sense of place. The cobbled courtyard, mix of independent and national retailers, and proximity to West Street help to drive repeat footfall.”
Farnham retail market
The acquisition comes against a positive backdrop for Farnham town centre. Vacancy rates across the primary retail pitch remain below the national average, with most voids being re-let within 12 months, and rental tone has held steady.
The town’s food and beverage sector continues to attract interest from quality operators, supported by a well-educated, high-spending catchment, strong connectivity via the A31 corridor, and a growing visitor economy. Curchod & Co notes that this creates a virtuous cycle, where a strong food and leisure offer drives footfall and, in turn, underpins occupier confidence.
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