Historic 400-Year-Old Solihull Nightspot Set for Pub Rebirth with Boutique Bedrooms
Plans have been revealed to breathe new life into a historic nightspot on Solihull High Street that has stood derelict for years, with proposals to transform it into a pub once again. The former Missoula Bar and Luna, which dates back to the 17th century and was the area's oldest nighttime venue, is set to be reborn as The Muddy Fox, a pub with rooms operated by London pub brand Heartwood Inns.
From Club Hub to Coaching Inn Revival
For decades, the site drew crowds of clubbers every weekend, but it closed eight years ago this month, marking the end of an era. Now, Heartwood Inns has entered into an agreement with Solihull Council ahead of submitting a detailed planning application in the coming months. The multi-million-pound investment aims to refurbish the listed building, creating 25 boutique-style bedrooms alongside a landscaped terrace and garden.
The proposed bedrooms will feature upscale amenities such as Roberts radios, Bramley toiletries, Chromecast televisions, and rainfall showers, with select rooms offering free-standing baths. The pub itself will boast seasonally changing menus and a carefully curated drinks list, designed to attract guests and locals alike.
Economic Boost and Community Support
Councillor Ian Courts, the authority's deputy leader and cabinet member for managed growth, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating: "The Muddy Fox will be a wonderful addition to Solihull. The development represents a significant boost for our town centre, helping to strengthen the local economy, creating jobs and increasing footfall on our high street." He added that it supports the council's ambition to enhance the evening and leisure offer in the area.
Richard Ferrier, Heartwood chief executive officer, commented: "We are delighted to be working with Solihull Council on the transformation of this characterful old coaching inn. We intend to invest significantly with the aim of creating a beautiful pub and once again be a valued part of Solihull's town centre." If planning approval is granted, work is expected to begin later this year.
A Rich History of Name Changes
The site has a storied past, originally called The Malt Shovel and undergoing several name changes over the years. These included the Snooty Fox from 1978 to 1993, with Scandals night club above, followed by Rosie O'Brien's, Rosie's Pump House, and The Pump House until 2004, and Loaf between 2004 and 2006. It later reopened as Popworld and briefly as B91 around 2009, before a stint as House Missoula Bar from 2016. Missoula and Luna both closed in 2018 following a compulsory purchase order as part of the Touchwood II expansion that never materialised.
This revival project aims to honour the building's heritage while introducing modern comforts, positioning it as a key destination in Solihull's evolving town centre landscape.
