About The Dukes
Our Story
The Dukes has been part of village life in Heath and Reach since 1745. For generations it stood proudly opposite the village green as a traditional thatched pub, welcoming locals, travellers and friends gathering for a drink, a meal and good conversation.
Over time, we began to notice something special about the moments people shared here. The Dukes was not just a pub. It was where birthdays were celebrated, families gathered after weddings and friends came together for milestones and memories.
That realisation inspired a new chapter for the building.
Rather than continuing as a traditional pub, we chose to honour the spirit of the place by transforming The Dukes into an exclusive venue dedicated to celebrations and gatherings. By stepping away from daily pub service, we could give guests something even more meaningful. Privacy, time and space to celebrate with the people who matter most.
Today The Dukes is a private venue where couples marry, families celebrate, and friends gather for unforgettable occasions. The historic Georgian building, with its thatched roof and original character, now provides an intimate and welcoming setting for weddings, retreats, milestone birthdays and special events.
Our approach is simple. We offer exclusive use of the venue so every celebration feels personal. With carefully prepared food, flexible drinks options and thoughtful planning, each event is designed around the people who are celebrating.
The Dukes has always been a place where people come together. That has not changed. What has changed is that now the entire house is yours to enjoy.
Our Story So Far
Humble Beginnings
Our grade II listed Georgian thatched building was built in 1735 and converted to a public house in 1745 called 'The Duke Of Cumberland's Head'. The Duke of Cumberland had defeated the pretender to the throne Charles Edward Stuart (grandson of King James II), known as Bonnie Prince Charlie at the battle of Culloden in 1746.
The Geordie Takeover
In 2016, after several years of being a restaurant, the business was taken over by Newcastle born sisters Sarah & Jo Nelson who changed the then named 'Dukes Head' to 'The Dukes'. The vision: The Dukes is an exclusive use venue for unforgettable weddings, celebrations and stays, hosted with care and done properly
Dukes On T.V
The Dukes can be see on channel 4's Four In A Bed and channel 5's Hotel Inspector with Alex Polizzi. Filming took place in 2019 and 2023.
Contact Us
7-9 Leighton Road,
Heath & Reach,
Leighton Buzzard.
LU7 0AA
01525 237892