Our Story
Nearly Two Centuries at the Heart of Dunton
The March Hare has been welcoming locals and visitors to the village of Dunton since 1840. Originally opened as The Wheatsheaf, the pub has been at the centre of village life for almost 200 years, bringing people together over great beer, good conversation and a warm village welcome.
As Dunton has evolved over the generations, so has the pub. Once one of five public houses serving the village, the March Hare is now proudly the last remaining village pub, continuing a tradition that has connected the community for nearly two centuries.
From The Wheatsheaf to The March Hare
The pub began life as The Wheatsheaf during the Victorian era, serving the agricultural community that shaped the surrounding countryside. Over the years it passed through the hands of several brewery owners, including Fordham’s Brewery of Ashwell and later Whitbread, before being renamed The March Hare during the 1980s.
While the name changed, the purpose remained the same: to offer a welcoming place where everyone can relax, enjoy a quality pint and spend time in good company.
A Community Worth Saving
Like many traditional country pubs, the March Hare faced uncertain times and closed its doors in 2008. Fortunately, its story didn’t end there.
The pub was purchased, carefully restored and reopened as an independent free house in 2010, ensuring Dunton retained its only remaining public house and preserving an important part of the village’s heritage.
Recognised for its importance to the local community, the March Hare has also been designated an Asset of Community Value, helping to safeguard its future for generations to come.
A New Chapter
Today, the March Hare begins an exciting new chapter under the stewardship of Jenny and Craig Mackie, who are passionate about restoring the pub’s place at the heart of village life.
Jenny brings many years of experience in service management, with a strong belief that exceptional customer service is at the heart of every successful hospitality business. Her focus is on creating a welcoming environment where every guest feels valued, whether they’re a regular from the village or visiting for the first time.
Craig is a lifelong enthusiast of quality real ales and traditional pubs. He is committed to keeping a carefully chosen selection of well-kept cask ales alongside an excellent range of beers, ciders, wines and spirits, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Together, Jenny and Craig are dedicated to creating a relaxed, welcoming community pub where locals, walkers, cyclists and visitors can enjoy genuine hospitality in a historic setting.
While our kitchen is currently being prepared, we’re looking forward to launching our food offering in October 2026. Until then, we invite you to join us for a drink, catch up with friends, attend one of our events and experience everything that makes a traditional country pub so special.
Looking Ahead
The story of the March Hare is still being written.
Every pint poured, every familiar face at the bar and every new visitor through our doors becomes part of the next chapter in the history of one of Bedfordshire’s most treasured village pubs.
Jenny and Craig are proud to be custodians of this historic village pub and are committed to ensuring that the March Hare continues to thrive for generations to come.
Whether you’re discovering us for the first time or returning to an old favourite, we look forward to welcoming you and becoming part of your own story at the March Hare.