Operations will continue as usual, with all staff remaining in their roles under the new ownership.
A regular guest and admirer of the restaurant - which sits just outside Canterbury’s city walls -bought the freehold property off an asking price of £995,000.
Formerly the Flying Horse pub, the site was transformed in 2015 when it was acquired by Sworder, whose CV includes Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, Anthony Demetre’s Les Deux Salons and Adam Byatt’s Bistro Union.
The current menu includes Jerusalem artichoke three ways with rocket and pumpkin seed pesto; confit pork belly with mash, burnt ends croquette, savoy cabbage, apple butter and cider jus; and lamb shoulder for two with dauphinoise potatoes, seasonal vegetables and lamb jus.
“Building The Corner House with my team to what it is today has been an absolute privilege. I purchased the Flying Horse from Enterprise Inns 11 years ago with my parents. The building required big love, and I am super proud of our teams’ accomplishments,” Sworder says. “I believe staff and teamwork are the most important ingredients in a restaurant and I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank my team both front and back of house, many of which have put up with me for over a decade.”
Simon Bland, senior associate at Fleurets, added: “It’s been a privilege to assist Matt with the sale of The Corner House, especially having sold the property to the Sworder family in the first place, some 11 years ago. The transformation and restoration of a lovely old building and the creation of such a brilliant business is a testament to their talent and commitment. I am genuinely delighted its story is to continue and I wish The Corner House team all the best.”
The Corner House remains open to guests, with bookings continuing as usual.