Stonesmith - The Latest News from Stonesmith http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php AVAILABLE ON A 10 YEAR FREE OF TIE LEASE AS WELL AS FREEHOLD SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCED! Famously referred by Thomas Hardy as the Sheaf of Arrows, in his book “Interlopers at the Knap” Extremely popular with fans of Thomas Hardy, after being referred to as the “Sheaf of Arrows” in one of his books, the Rest and Welcome Inn in Melbury Osmond attracts custom from around the world. The business is now for sale thorough licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Rest and Welcome is a traditional style country inn and destination public house, which is family friendly and boasts a strong local following. It has recently been refurbished throughout but has retained its charm and character. It was originally three houses which were built in the late 1700's and converted by Bruttons Brewery of Yeovil to an inn in the late 1860's. The inn has a good reputation for real ales, good food and warm hospitality and is run by the owners with a full time chef and part time staff. The business has an enviable all year round trade which is enhanced in the summer months from tourists. The local trade is also boosted by the 8 skittles teams. The Rest and Welcome is situated on the outskirts of Melbury Osmond on the A37 between Yeovil and Dorchester. A detached building it has benefitted from considerable investment over the past 5-6 years including all of the trade areas and the private accommodation. The property has retained many of its original features including beamed ceilings, open fireplaces and exposed stonework. The trade accommodation briefly provides a lounge bar and top bar with combined covers of 44 and a well equipped catering kitchen. The private accommodation offers 3 bedrooms, a family shower room and a lounge. Outside there is a fully operational and purpose built skittle alley/function room with 40 covers. There is also a trade garden with a children’s play area, a private garden, detached storage barn, a garage and patrons car park for 25 vehicles. Mike Philips of Stonesmith says “The Rest and Welcome represents an excellent opportunity to purchase a well established and well regarded business which still offers genuine potential to develop all aspects of the trade still further”. Stonesmith are looking for offers, for a new 10 year free of tie lease, off a guide price of £25,000 (reduced from £39,950), with a rent of £27,500pa, or the Freehold option at £345,000 (reduced from£450,000). http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=238 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=238 Character Village inn with the potential to re-instate two letting rooms. A substantial and deceptively spacious Grade II Listed village inn, The Sedgemoor Inn at Westonzoyland trades as a traditional country pub and destination public house and is the only pub in the village. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Bought by a local couple 3 years ago, they have built up a strong following and have established a good reputation for quality ales, wine and food. With a cosy and friendly atmosphere the business enjoy a strong all year round trade, not only from the villagers but the surrounding towns and villages. The pub also benefits from a seasonal increase with tourists visiting the area and staying in nearby campsites and self-catering accommodation. The owners have introduced a popular carvery on Wednesdays and Sundays and support 3 skittles teams and a football team. The pub also has its own Carnival Club that meets once a week which enters the famous Bridgwater Carnival, reputed to be the largest and best illuminated procession in the world. The pub is situated in the heart of Westonzoyland, a village with a strong community and known for being the site of the last battle of England in1685. It has easy access to Bridgwater, 3.5 miles away, and the county town of Taunton and the M5, 15 miles away. The property dates back to 1600’s and provides generous accommodation over two floors. The owners have comprehensively maintained the property, which is presented in excellent order throughout. Many of the characteristic and period features have been retained with inglenook fireplaces, exposed stone walls etc. At ground floor level the accommodation briefly provides a public bar with 31 plus covers, a lounge bar with 30 covers, a multi purpose function room/restaurant/skittle alley with 60 plus covers and a well equipped catering kitchen. The first floor provides private accommodation with 4 bedrooms, two of which have previously been used as letting rooms and could be re-instated, a lounge, kitchenette, study, family bathroom and a private balcony and roof terrace. Outside to the front of the property there is a trade terrace with seating for 12 customers and to the rear an attractive beer garden with seating for approx 16, including a patio area and a smoking shelter. There is also parking for 5 vehicles and various stores. The Sedgemoor Inn still the potential to increase all aspects of the business including extending the opening hours, especially in the summer months, and offering carverys on other days. At present the turnover is split 60% wet sales and 40% food sales. A leasehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £69,995. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=176 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=176 Well presented Tex Mex restaurant with family sized accommodation in sought after coastal town and fishing port Having been in the same hands for the past 13 years and being the only Tex Mex restaurant in the town, Pepe’s in East Looe, Cornwall is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Pepe’s operates as a family Mexican restaurant specialising in Tex Mex cuisine and is decorated to reflect the style of trade. The owners have chosen to open during the evenings only and opening times vary depending on the time of year. The business has a strong all year round local trade that is considerably boosted in the summer months. Pepe’s is a quality business with family sized accommodation in a sought after and desirable coastal town. Due to the high standard inherent throughout the property, new owners would be able to move in without the need for any major expenditure. The restaurant occupies a prominent end of terrace position in the heart of East Looe and offers tremendous potential. It offers new owners the chance to continue with the existing trade or develop a style of cuisine to meet their requirements. There is also the opportunity to open during the day. The property is situated close to the harbourside and pier, which is one of the most photographed harboursides in the West Country. The town still has an active fishing industry as well as attracting tourists to its maze of tiny streets and fine sandy beach. Pepe’s briefly provides a main restaurant with 52 covers and space for additional seating if required, a separate bar area and a fully equipped catering kitchen with various ancillary areas. There is also a self contained 3 bedroomed apartment with a lounge, fully fitted kitchen/diner, bathroom and balcony. A leasehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £125,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=237 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=237 Modern refurbished restaurant and cafe bar re-opening as a surf/South Sea Island themed, fast food restaurant Having been completely rebuilt and refurbished only 12 months ago, Pasta Porto Express in Sidwell Street, Exeter has recently been sold by licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The new owner is Liam Lewis who has renamed the restaurant Waikiki and it will be a surf style and South Sea Island themed fast food restaurant and take away with internal and external seating areas. Liam’s aim is to produce healthy, tasty and wholesome food and refreshment/beverages that are freshly made to order and with a fast service. The decor will appeal to possibly a younger age group with the nearby university and students in mind. Waikiki will also open 7 days a week from early morning to early evening/late afternoon. Liam hopes in the future to develop the Waikiki trade name and to expand into student dominated areas throughout the West County. The property is in a prime trading position fronting Exeter’s Sidwell Street and close to the High Street and city centre. The restaurant is fully air conditioned with a modern in design, seating for 30 customers inside and a further 16 outside. There is also a comprehensively equipped and modern catering kitchen. A leasehold business, Stonesmith were looking for offers off a guide price of £50,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=236 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=236 Award winning country hotel in the heart of Exmoor National Park with spectacular Moorland Views. Stonesmith of Exeter have been instructed to sell the Dunkery Beacon Hotel at Wootton Courtenay, Nr Minehead, Exmoor, Somerset which has been voted in the top 15 hotels in the UK for the past 2 years by TripAdvisor. Dunkery Beacon Hotel has been in the present ownership since 2005 during which time the owners have undertaken an extensive refurbishment and improvement program and brought the hotel up to an exceptionally high standard. Trading as country house the Dunkery Beacon has been voted one of the top 15 hotels in the UK by TripAdvisor and is also rated 4 Star Guest Accommodation by Visit Britain. The high standards and personal service have ensured an excellent level of repeat business along with the hotels successful web site www.dunkerybeaconaccommodation.co.uk The sale represents an excellent opportunity for new owners to develop a style of trade to suit their needs and to re-introduce both resident and non resident restaurant and bar trade, if they so wish. The Dunkery Beacon is a substantial and spacious property, originally built as an Edwardian hunting lodge. It has one of the best positions of any accommodation provider on Exmoor with all of the public and letting rooms facing south and having breathtaking views across the gardens and fields to the moors beyond. The property is in the favoured village of Wotton Courtenay 4 miles from the coast at Minehead and Porlock. Presented to a high standard throughout the accommodation briefly provides 8 comfortable letting rooms, appointed to a very high standard and including 3 suites, a residents lounge, dining room, fully fitted bar (not presently being used), fully equipped catering kitchen and an owners apartment, with 2 further bedrooms that could provide additional living or letting accommodation. There is also a separate 1 bedroom self contained annexe cottage in the grounds. The property is set in grounds extending to over half an acre, that includes landscaped lawned gardens, a veranda, alfresco guest seating terrace and a large car park A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £695,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=235 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=235 Well regarded quality inn situated 2 miles from Exeter city centre Situated just two miles from Exeter’s city centre, in a sought after residential area, The Tally Ho!, near Countess Weir, enjoys the feeling of being in a village setting and is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Tally Ho! has a strong year round trade not only from the immediate area but from nearby business parks, County Hall, Exe Cycle Trail, the local church (with weddings, christenings etc) and the nearby crematorium (with wakes). The pub also hosts occasional live music events, a regular quiz and weekly meat draw. The present owner has built up an excellent reputation for well kept ales and quality home made food (using locally sourced produce where possible). The trade split being 55% wet sales and 45% food sales. The property is deceptively spacious and full of character and is well presented throughout. It briefly provides a bar with 32 covers, a lounge/dining area with 37 covers, a well equipped commercial catering kitchen, ancillary areas, an office and 4 bed family accommodation. The real feature if the property is the enclosed trade garden with seating for approx 60, which includes a children’s play area, barbecue and patio. There is also a private garden, vegetable patch and a garage. Off road parking is available outside the property. A leasehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide priced of £69,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=234 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=234 Licensed cafe/coffee shop and restaurant with impressive levels of turnover and profitability, in a prime trading position. Situated in the main high street, in the centre of the thriving market town of Honiton in East Devon, Riva Cafe and Restaurant enjoys all the benefits of having a prominent trading position along with the commercial advantages of complimentary businesses. Due to other business interests, Riva is now for sale through licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The present owners have been at Riva for the past 8 years plus and in that time they have almost completely refurbished it. The business now trades as a successful licensed cafe and restaurant operating as a daytime coffee shop and restaurant. Riva enjoys an excellent reputation with both the locals and visitors and has an enviable level of repeat custom. It is highly regarded for its home made food, all made fresh to order, with a varied daytime menu of classic hot and cold cafe snacks, sandwiches and hot and cold beverages, along with a take-away menu. The business is well established and equipped and forms part of a ground floor Grade II Listed property which is presented to a high standard throughout. It briefly provides a customer dining area with seating for approx 30, a customer servery, coffee lounge area with approx 8 covers, a commercial catering kitchen, ancillary areas and welfare facilities. To the rear of the property there is an enclosed trade patio with a further 12 covers and extra storage. A leasehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £59,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=233 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=233 Established tea room and cafe with well appointed owners accommodation Trading as a quality tea room and cafe and situated in a prominent position, Mallards Tea Rooms in Tiverton, Devon is for sale through commercial property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Mallards trades as a daytime cafe 6 day’s a week and enjoys an excellent reputation and a regular all year round trade. The business serves breakfasts, light bites, lunches and afternoon teas which include sandwiches, baguettes, jacket potatoes, salads, daily specials, cream teas, ice creams and hot and cold beverages. It also provides a popular take away service. The business has been run by a husband and wife team since 2005. Despite running a successful business they feel Mallards still has room for growth and offers the potential for new owners to develop a style of trading to suit their needs. Mallards occupies a high profile trading position in an attractive pedestrianised area of Tiverton, a thriving market town with a good range of modern and local facilities and excellent road and rail links. The property is Grade II Listed, with origins dating from approx 19th century, and is believed to have formerly been two cottages. Presented to a high standard throughout it offers new owners an established daytime cafe with a dining room for approx 40, a commercial catering kitchen and attractive two bedroomed owners accommodation. Externally there is a small al fresco dining area to the front of the property with seating for 8 customers. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £249,500. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=232 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=232 Trading as a coffee shop and sandwich bar, and incorporating a quality delicatessen, Deli Delicious in Dawlish is now for sale through licensed, leisure, hotel and catering specialists, Stonesmith of Exeter. Deli Delicious provides a selection of quality home made foods and offers a wide range of speciality food and drinks including cheeses, cooked meats, antipasti, pies and pasties. They also provide a selection of sandwiches, baguettes and Panini’s, along with a range of hot and cold beverages to take away or eat in. They also produce hampers to order, which are extremely popular at Christmas. The owners believe there is still the potential to expand the business further by extending the opening hours, expanding the menu and possibly introducing a sandwich delivery and outside catering services. The business would also benefit from a more pro active marketing and advertising policy, especially by advertising the hampers on-line. Deli Delicious is a ground floor lock up unity situated in a prominent trading position on the main shopping street in Dawlish. It was established as a delicatessens and coffee shop in 2005, by the present owners, and is purposely equipped and presented to a high standard. It briefly comprises a delicatessen area, open plan seating for approx 12 customers and a preparation kitchen A leasehold business, Deli Delicious if for sale with a guide price of £19,950. ALL OFFERS CONSIDERED http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=155 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=155 Modern town centre cafe and bistro in South Devon coastal resort Opened in 2008 as a quality cafe, with occasional evening bistro meals, Too Delicious in Dawlish, South Devon, has established itself as a popular, and vibrant establishment attracting both locals and holidaymakers. A successful business, it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Too Delicious operates as a quality and lively cafe and bistro serving cooked breakfast, light lunches, snacks and a good range of speciality coffees and hot and cold beverages. It is predominately a daytime operation but in the busy summer months trades during the evening as a bistro. It also opens for private parties and functions throughout the year and benefits from a license to serve alcohol. The business has a good reputation both locally and with tourists, for quality home made food, a lively ambiance and a high level of service. The present owners have run the business to suit their lifestyle and young family but feel there is the potential for new owners to grow the trade by adopting a more active marketing and advertising campaign along with developing a web site. Too Delicious is a lock up business, benefitting from being located in a prominent position amongst other complimentary businesses in the main high street in Dawlish. The cafe also overlooks the town’s attractive lawns, stream and waterfalls. The property briefly comprises a split level dining and seating area with 30 covers, a customer servery area, catering kitchen, welfare facilities and storage areas. A leasehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £29,950 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=205 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=205 Well established guest house in a prime location and attracting year round tourist and commercial business The Angel Guest House in Tiverton, Devon has been sold through Stonesmith of Exeter and has been bought by Sue and Chris Holliday, who have relocated to the area from Nottingham. Sue and Chris were looking to move to the West Country and wanted an all year round business that did not rely totally on the seasonal tourist trade. They felt that the Angel Guest House offered everything they desired, as letting accommodation is always in demand in the town throughout the year. Sue and Chris are carrying on as a B&B but will be upgrading and refurbishing the property to suit their style and also increase the number of en-suite letting rooms. Whilst Sue and Chris have retained the guest house web site www.angelguesthouse.co.uk they are also looking at linking to a number of specialist booking agencies and increasing the guest house’s profile. Set in a Conservation Area the Angel Guest House is a spacious 3 storey property. It is believed to date back to the early 1700’s and of the Georgian period. Despite undergoing a comprehensive programme of improvements the property has retained many of its original features. It offers 7 well appointed letting rooms (which can sleep up to a maximum of 16), a resident’s dining room, well equipped kitchen and a spacious 3 bedroomed family apartment with a lounge, dining room and bathroom. Externally there is an enclosed private courtyard and off road parking for 2 cars. A freehold business Stonesmith sold the Angel Guest House off a guide price of £300,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=231 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=231 Established licensed daytime cafe bar and restaurant in city centre Situated in a unique position, within a private shopping arcade, The Real McCoy Cafe in Exeter is an established and licensed business, operating as a daytime only cafe and restaurant. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Real McCoy Café enjoys the advantage of being in a distinct trading position surrounded by a vibrant mix of businesses. Situated within McCoys Arcade on Fore Street it is close to the main shopping areas of the city centre and a few minutes walk from Exeter’s Cathedral and green. The Real McCoy Café offers a genuine alternative to High Street establishments and briefly comprises a customer seating area within the arcade for 48 with an additional dining area for a further 20. There is a customer servery, commercial kitchen, store room and communal welfare facilities. The business trades as a cafe/coffee shop and licensed restaurant. It enjoys an excellent reputation and repeat custom and is highly regarded for its home made food, eclectic ambience and style. The Real McCoy Café offers a full and varied daytime menu with hot and cold meals and snacks along with a range of alcoholic and non alcoholic hot and cold beverages, shakes, smoothies and frappes. It also offers a popular takeaway service. Currently run under management, it offers genuine potential to build upon all aspects of the trade. Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £19,950 for the leasehold interest. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=228 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=228 Quality award winning restaurant sold within a week Specialist licensed property agents, Stonesmith of Exeter have sold the award winning Squid Ink Restaurant in East Looe. The quality and success of the business, the olde worlde charm and the flexibility to develop a style of trading to suit, was exactly what the new owners of the Squid Ink were looking for in a new venture. Previously owned and successfully run by Sarah Hall, The Squid Ink has been bought by Warren Goodridge and Catherine Butterfield. They have kept the well known Squid Ink name and will be trading along the lines of the restaurants previous success (Silver Restaurant award by Taste of the West) but have added their own twist. The menu will have an English/French style and offer a split of fish and meat dishes. One of their main aims is to promote the goodness of local Cornish produce and where possible their food is sourced from within 10 miles of the restaurant, with the fish coming fresh and directly from boats based out of Looe harbour. The restaurant is situated in the heart of Looe which is one of the most photographed harbour sides in the West Country and has and active fishing industry. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith said “Squid Ink attracted immediate interest from experienced caterers and a sale was agreed within a week of the business coming to the market with the sale completing with 4 weeks and we wish Warren and Catherine every success with their new venture”. A leasehold restaurant, Stonesmith sold The Squid Ink off an asking price of £99,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=230 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=230 Impressive detached Grade II Listed Hotel in the sought after South Hams waterside town of Dartmouth. Trading as an established high quality guest house and set in a prominent landmark trading position, Townstal Farmhouse Hotel in Dartmouth is now for sale through licensed & leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Townstal Farmhouse is presented in first class order throughout and located opposite the famous Britannia Naval College in Dartmouth. A family run business it has been in the same hands for the past 30 years and has previously traded as a licensed hotel offering evening meals. More recently, and with retirement pending, the owners have chosen to operate on a B&B only basis and have run the business to suit their lifestyle. The high standards throughout have ensured an excellent level of repeat and word of mouth business. Advertising has been restricted to the hotels web site www.townstalfarmhouse.com. With the impending retirement and restricted level of trading there is a great deal of scope to develop both the resident and non resident trade by possibly reintroducing evening meals, opening the bar and offering cream teas etc. Stonesmith recommend a formal viewing to fully appreciate the full potential Townstal Farmhouse has to offer. Dartmouth is an internationally famous tourist destination, situated on the outstandingly beautiful river Dart, popular with the sailing and boating fraternity. The town is known for its narrow streets, individual shops, restaurants, stunning waterfront location and unique architecture. The property is believed to date back to 16th century and has been completely refurbished and an annex added in the past 15 years though many of the original features have been retained. Townstal now briefly provides16 individually designed en-suite letting rooms, a residents lounge, 2 dining rooms with a bar area for 30, a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious 2/3 bedroomed owner’s house. Outside there is a private enclosed garden, a courtyard terrace and off road parking for approx 20 vehicles. A freehold business with a six figure profit, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £1,475,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=229 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=229 Free of Tie, South Devon coastal town, wet led pub Situated on a prominent corner site in a residential area of Brixham in South Devon, The Queens Arms trades as a traditional wet led local’s pub with a solid year round trade. It is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Queens Arms has a good local following and become the focal point of the local community. It supports 3 darts and a pool team and is a popular venue for televised sporting events and holds a weekly karaoke night. The pub trade as a 100% wet sales only business, and open from midday until midnight Monday to Saturday and midday to 11pm on Sundays. There is though an opening for food sales as a demand exists. The Queens Arms is a 3 storey corner property set in a residential area, close to Brixham’s town centre. Brixham is one of the country’s principal fishing ports and is increasing in popularity with the redevelopment of the harbour area and the building of an impressive marina. Brixham is also a popular tourist destination and forms part of the borough of Torbay, known as the English Riviera. Over the past 4 years the owners have upgraded and maintained the property, carrying out a number of improvements. The property briefly comprises, at ground floor, the main trading area with a spacious “L” shaped bar and pool area with seating for 30, with plenty of standing room. There is also a kitchen, utility, beer cellar and welfare facilities. The first floor provides owners accommodation with a lounge/dining room, Kitchen/breakfast room, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. There is also an extensive boarded out attic space. Outside to the rear there is an enclosed patio style beer garden with seating for approx 18, along with a range of useful outbuildings. For sale as a valuable “Free of tie” lease, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £19,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=217 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=217 Historic Dartmoor coaching inn with 10 letting rooms set in 20 acres Set in the heart of the Dartmoor National Park, in the small rural hamlet of Hexworthy, The Forest Inn offers ten letting bedrooms and extensive owners/staff accommodation. It has an excellent reputation with regular and repeat business and enjoys far reaching views over the moor. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Forest Inn was bought by the present owners nearly 10 years ago and in that time they have built up a solid year round trade. The inn has always been extremely popular with walkers, horse riders and pony trekkers and is mentioned in Crossings Guide to Dartmoor, used by walkers and Dartmoor enthusiasts. The property is situated in the heart of Dartmoor and located in a secluded and elevated position overlooking the Dart Valley and lying close to the Hexworthy Bridge beauty spot, Vennford Reservoir and other beauty spots and attractions. It is surrounded by picturesque moorland scenery and wildlife. The Forest Inn reputedly dates back to the late 1800’s and is an historic coaching inn with ground floor trading areas providing a main bar, lounge area, dining area, restaurant and an overflow dining area/private dining room. There is also a commercial catering kitchen with ancillary areas. There are also 10 letting rooms each with private bathroom facilities. The property also offers substantial staff and owners accommodation including, a self contained flatlet with a lounge, double bedroom and a bathroom and 4 further bedrooms. There is also a large one bedroom self contained flat and a detached one bedroom chalet style building. The property is set in its own grounds of approx 20 acres which are predominantly paddock and field areas with woodlands. There is also a decked trade garden with 50 covers, parking for 40 cars, 4 stables and various useful outbuildings. The Forest Inn represents an excellent opportunity to purchase a well established and well regarded business with genuine potential for growth. At present the trade split is 50% food sales, 30% wet sales and 20% accommodation which has been awarded 3 Star Guest Accommodation status by Visit England. Further information on The Forest Inn can also be obtained from their web site www.theforestinn.co.uk As with the majority of business premises within Dartmoor National Park, The Forest Inn is held on a favourable terms of a Duchy of Cornwall lease. Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £345,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=211 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=211 Coastal village inn with 8 en-suite letting rooms A family run business, The Smugglers Rest Inn at Mortehoe in North Devon, has been in the same hands for the past 11 years. A substantial village inn with 8 en-suite letting rooms it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Smugglers Rest is a popular local’s haunt with a strong all year round trade which is boosted substantially in the summer months from tourists and benefits from a number of caravan sites, guest houses and self catering accommodation close by. The inn is family and dog friendly and offers a good and varied menu with freshly prepared meals, including vegetarian and specialist dished, with an extensive selection of good old pub favourites, an ever-changing specialist board and their very popular Sunday Lunches. Meals are available in the bar and restaurant or on fine days in the trade garden. Whilst the business has its own web site www.thesmugglersrest.co.uk there is genuine scope to exploit all aspects of the trade, particularly by increasing the marketing of the accommodation. At present the trade split is, as a guide, 40% food, 40% wet and 20% accommodation. The Smugglers Rest occupies a prominent, landmark, trading position in the centre of Mortehoe, opposite the main car park. Mortehoe is a pretty North Devon coastal village, in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, surrounded by award winning beaches and stunning coastal walks. As such it attracts walkers, cyclists and surfers among its many visitors. A substantial and deceptively spacious property it briefly provides a main bar with 50 covers plus standing, a restaurant for 28, a commercial kitchen, 8 en-suite letting rooms and a 4 bed family apartment. Outside to the rear there are enclosed trade gardens with 60 plus covers. There is also a customer seating area to the front of the property for approx 10 customers. Offering genuine potential, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £575,000 for the freehold business. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=227 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=227 Established bistro and restaurant in affluent trading position The Cat in the Hat in St Leonards, Exeter has been sold by licensed property specialists, Stonesmith. An established bistro and restaurant it will be renamed Petit Mange and run by Charlotte Lloyd-Wrigley, ably assisted by new chef Adam Page. Charlotte has a great deal of expertise in the catering and hospitality trade, having previously worked for some of the top restaurants in the area. This is her first venture running her own business. Adam is a highly competent chef and again has worked for some top named Westcountry hotels and restaurants. The business has been closed for refurbishment and re-opens on Monday 1st August with a fresh modern and contemporary look and a new name. It will operate as a café, bar and restaurant. The business will be open from breakfast through to evening meals and offer a modern British cuisine with Mediterranean influences and using locally sourced products. They will also be offering the award winning Tom’s Pies, a range of local hand made pies only available at select venues. Breakfast will be the restaurants own twist on a traditional English breakfast, light bites are available at lunchtime, morning & afternoon coffee and tea will be complemented by a tempting selection of cakes and patisseries and a full menu is available in the evening. Petit Mange will also double up as an art gallery and will be showcasing work from George Porter, a contemporary abstract artist, and Joe Willcocks, a dynamic and diverse adventure photographer. Both artists work will be available to view and buy at the restaurant. The property is in a prominent position on one of the busy roads into the city and set alongside a range of national, local and independent shops and services, known locally as The Village. A 3 storey mid terraced building it comprises a ground floor restaurant with a separate two storey owners flat above. The restaurant briefly provides 32 covers with a bar area, mezzanine dining room, conservatory dining room and fully equipped catering kitchen. The private accommodation has 3 bedrooms, lounge, kitchen, dining room and bathroom. A leasehold business, Stonesmith sold The Cat in the Hat for an undisclosed figure. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=226 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=226 Grade II Listed traditional freehouse bought for refurbishment and as a new venture Previously owned by a National Pub Company and operated as part of their tied trade estate, The Manor at Brixham has been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The business had been closed but in the past traded as a wet led community pub. The new owners are John and Alison Goodman who have taken on the challenge of restoring the property to its former glory and where possible they have tried to use local builders and skilled craftsmen. Being Grade II Listed it has meant they have had to keep within the conditions of the listing but plan to reopen towards the end of the year. The property will retain as much of its character as possible, if not more, but will also be slightly more contemporary. The business will operate as a wine bar/pub/café and will serve a well selected range of wines; draft, bottled and continental beers and be open for morning coffee and they plan to introduce a new menu offering light meals and tapas style appetizers and snacks. The business has also retained the café license, operating at the front of the property The Manor is situated in a residential area close to Brixham’s town centre and harbour. Brixham, being one of the countries principal fishing ports, has enjoyed a surge in popularity recently with the new upmarket and impressive marina. As a town it forms part of the Borough of Torbay, better known as The English Riviera. The property briefly provides a main bar, kitchen, beer cellar, customer welfare facilities and 2/3 bedroomed private accommodation. To the rear a small enclosed courtyard. The Manor was sold as a freehold property off a guide price of £150,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=225 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=225 High quality licensed guest house with 9 letting rooms An attractive and substantial three storey property, Cherwood Guest House in Paignton is an impressive licensed guest house. It offers 9 individual en-suite letting bedrooms and is presented to a high standard throughout. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Cherwood is a well established privately run guest house business which has been completely refurbished and upgraded by the present owners over the past 9 years. Through personal choice the owners only trade for 6 months of the year but enjoy a good level of repeat trade. Consequently there is scope to increase all aspects of the trade with longer opening hours. It is also run on a bed and breakfast only basis with additional revenue being generated from the licensed bar. The business has been awarded 4 stars and a silver award for quality from Visit Britain and has its own web site www.cherwood-hotel.co.uk, which produces good levels of enquires and business. The property is situated close to Paignton’s sea front and town centre and is a short walk from the sandy beaches, historic harbour, pier and multiplex cinema. It is also a good base for tourists wishing to visit Torbay, Dartmoor National Park and the many surrounding attractions within the Westcountry. Cherwood briefly provides 9 well appointed en-suite letting rooms, which can sleep a maximum of 21 guests. There is also a residents lounge bar, dining room, children’s games room, kitchen and laundry room. The owners accommodation provides 2 double bedrooms, a lounge and separate bathroom. Outside to the front of the property there is a small enclosed walled garden with seating for the residents and to the rear there is an enclosed patio with a rear access. Cherwood provides an excellent opportunity for first time business buyers looking to enter the hospitality trade and is worth a full internal inspection. A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £350,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=88 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=88 Well presented detached hotel with magnificent sea and countryside views in a highly sought after South Hams coastal village. Set in a prominent and elevated position, in the highly sought after South Hams village of Hope Cove, Sand Pebbles hotel boasts stunning views over the village, countryside and the cove. Bought by the present owners 5 years ago and trading as a successful Bed and Breakfast business, Sand Pebbles is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith in Exeter. The owners bought Sand Pebbles as a licensed hotel and restaurant and have transformed it into a quality bed and breakfast only establishment. Their success has been rewarded with a four star guest accommodation accreditation from enjoyEngland.com. The business trades as a lifestyle business to suit the current owner’s personal requirements and provides quality B&B accommodation for only 8 months of the year. The high standards have ensured an excellent level of repeat business and word of mouth recommendations, with advertising restricted to tourist guides and their own web site www.Sandpebbles.co.uk. Sand Pebbles is a friendly family run 4 star Guest House with 9 well equipped en-suite bedrooms, a guest lounge and large breakfast room with views over the village and sea. The property also provides a high quality and substantial 3 bedroom owners accommodation. Outside the property is surrounded by beautiful gardens with patio terraces to the front and rear. Lawned gardens lead up to the restaurant area, popular with guests. The entrance drive points directly to front and rear car parks with spaces for approx 15 vehicles. Sand Pebbles has not been fully exploited and offers further potential by developing the restaurant and bar trade, both to residents and non residents. There is also an opportunity to utilise some of the owner’s accommodation for letting. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers of a guide price of £945,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=209 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=209 Refurbished village inn set in the heart of Exmoor National Park Trading as a traditional country village inn and destination public house, and benefitting from being the only pub in the village, The Lion Inn at Timberscombe Nr Minehead is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The business has been in the same hands for the past 5 years and in that time the owners have undertaken considerable upgrading and refurbishment to the property, including internal and external redecoration, re-roofing and new equipment to the trade areas. During their time at The Lion Inn they have successfully built up a well supported quality business with a strong all year round trade and popular local following, with an uplift from tourists and passing trade especially in the summer months. The pub supports various teams including skittles, darts, quiz and table tennis. They also host a weekly Senior Citizens lunch and hold regular live music events. With all of this and more, the pub is very much the focal point of village life. The pub has a good reputation for its food but has a slightly stronger wet trade with the turnover split 45% food and 55% wet sales. There is scope though to improve the turnover especially with longer opening hours in the summer months. The Lion Inn is situated in the village of Timberscombe, an Exmoor village in the heart of the Exmoor National Park. It is approximately 9 miles from the popular Somerset resort of Minehead and just off the A396, a popular tourist route across Exmoor. A deceptively spacious freehouse, it briefly comprises a main bar with approx 16 covers, a dining room with 22 covers, a lounge bar with 20 covers and a pool room with approx 8 covers. On the first floor there is a skittle alley/function room, which is self contained, and private living accommodation, which is presented to a high standard throughout, providing a lounge, 5 bedrooms and a bathroom with a separate W.C. Externally to the front of the pub there is a small forecourt with picnic style seating and to the rear there is a private raised decking area. Unrestricted parking is available on the roads surrounding the property. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £399,999 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=224 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=224 4 star guest house with 9 high quality en-suite letting rooms and 4 bedroom owners accommodation Having been in the same hands for the past 9 years and presented to a high standard throughout, Hotel Iona in Torquay, Devon has come on to the market with licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Hotel Iona is a well established and well regarded business which has been extensively refurbished and awarded 4 stars by the AA. The high quality and standards throughout have ensured excellent levels of repeat business and word of mouth recommendations. The business also has its own web site www.hoteliona.co.uk which in turn is linked and affiliated to a number of high profile accommodation sites. The business benefits from having a licensed bar, though, by personal choice, it is predominantly run on a bed and breakfast basis only. Therefore there is scope to increase the bar and evening meal side, as this currently represents only 10% of the annual turnover. The hotel is an attractive 1860’s former Victorian Villa which is situated in a quiet conservation area, half a mile from the town centre. Torquay is part of the Borough of Torbay, famously known as the English Riviera. It has prospered and developed over the years and is a renowned international holiday resort and popular residential and retirement town. The property briefly provides 9 individual En-Suite Letting Bedrooms which can sleep up to 21 guests, a reception area, residents lounge with bar, conservatory dining room, commercial catering kitchen and substantial family sized owners accommodation with 4 bedrooms, a lounge and shower room. Externally, the property offers off road parking for 8-9 vehicles, a rear patio garden with a feature pond and workshop and further storage rooms. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £545,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=223 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=223 Pub famous for being unofficial HQ for Army practicing Second World War D Day landings at nearby Slapton Sands. A food led business, The Forces Tavern, in the pretty South Hams village of Blackawton in South Devon, attracts customers from a wide area, having established an excellent reputation for its catering. The freehold pub is now for sale through licensed property specialists of Exeter. In 2008 the property was completely refurbished to a high standard, including a new roof, new cellar, new electrics, new fire and smoke alarm system, new fixtures and fittings, and a completely new kitchen and inventory throughout. The Forces Tavern is a destination freehouse with a strong local year round trade which is greatly boost in the summer months from tourists and visitors to the area. The pub has built up a good name for its catering and now provides a varied menu offering home made Italian and English dishes. The strong food sales reflect in the trade split with 65% of the turnover coming from food sales and 35% wet sales. Reputedly dating back 400 years the property has a famous history. It served as the unofficial headquarters for the British Army whilst practicing for the famous D Day landings on nearby Slapton Sands. The Forces Tavern is in a prominent landmark position close to Woodlands Leisure Park and Dartmouth Golf Club on the outskirts of Blackawton. It is also only a few miles from the beautiful South Hams coastline and benefits from numerous campsites, self catering complexes and tourist attractions in the vicinity. There is still scope to expand and develop the business, with longer opening hours and the potential to offer B&B accommodation. The Forces Tavern does not currently have a web site and no advertising or marketing is undertaken. The property briefly comprises a main bar and restaurant with 42 covers, a fully fitted commercial kitchen and 4 bedroomed owner’s accommodation. Externally there is an al fresco dining area with 16 covers and a customer’s car park with approximately 30 spaces. Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £325,000 for the freehold business http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=152 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=152 Quality village pub and restaurant with immaculate owners accommodation Having received a £200,000 refit and refurbishment program 4 years ago, The Castle at Landkey in North Devon, has been well maintained ever since and boasts immaculate owners accommodation. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Castle is a successful family run village pub with a strong locals trade, receiving an uplift in the summer months from tourists. The owners pride themselves on providing a range of quality cask conditioned ales and ciders, a fine selection of wines and a wide ranging menu of home cooked food, including a specials board and Sunday roast etc. The trade split being 60% wet and 40% food sales. The pub is the focal point of village life and is children and dog friendly. It supports and hosts various pub teams and games nights including, skittles, shove ha’penny, dominoes, pool and euchre. There are also open mic nights, charity events, private parties, christenings etc. The Castle is situated in the centre of the village and benefits from brown signs off the main A361, which joins North Devon to the M5 at Tiverton. Landkey is a popular village which includes a primary school, church, general stores, post office etc and has the famous Tarka Trail on the doorstep. It is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty and surrounded by natural and historic places of interest. The well maintained property provides, at ground floor, a main bar area with 20 covers, a 44 cover restaurant, fully equipped catering kitchen, cellar and immaculate 3 bedroomed first floor flat. Outside the property benefits from a trade garden and patio, a private garden, skittle alley, single garage and parking for 5/6 vehicles. Behind the pub is a public car park, with access directly to the pub, which provides approx 50 spaces. A leasehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £49,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=222 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=222 Unusual members club held on a long lease with nil rent! For the past 77 years Willy’s Social Club has operated as a private members club known for its indoor sports. The business is now closed and the property for sale through Stonesmith of Exeter. Willy’s has a long history and as recently as 2004 had over 400 members. It boasted a strong indoor sports theme with darts, skittles, billiards, snooker and euchre. There are no historic figures and prospective purchasers will need to make up their own mind as to the trading potential and viability of the property. The premises benefits from a Club Premises Certificate and also the screening of films, live and recorded music, dance and entertainment. Alcohol is allowed within licensing hours with standard extensions for New Years Eve etc. The property is situated at the junction of Willey’s Avenue and Water lane, 1 mile south of Exeter’s city centre. It is a single storey building occupying the entire site apart from a small tarmac forecourt to the front. It is sub divided into a main entrance with customer areas including a main bar, snooker room, function room & skittle hall, welfare facilities, a small cellar, store and kitchen. The property Is for sale with a 150 year lease from March 1976 and is rent free, though the tenant is responsible for the upkeep of the property and all outgoings. The permitted use is for an athletic and sports club. Stonesmith are looking for offers in the region of £67,500 for the leasehold interest, including the trade inventory left in the premises. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=196 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=196 Busy 40 seater cafe, restaurant and sandwich bar in busy city centre location. An opportunity to purchase a successful and busy cafe, restaurant and sandwich bar in a prime city trading location has become available, report specialist agents Stonesmith of Exeter. Fuel, in Exeter, Devon, is a spacious double fronted, ground floor, lock-up cafe, purposely equipped and situate just off the busy high street. It can comfortably seat 40 and benefits from being close to 2 large car parks, offices and several national retailers. Fuel has established a strong reputation, with locals and visitors alike, for its quality food, ambiance and friendly service and consequently benefits from a good degree of repeat business. The cafe offers a varied menu of hot and cold food and beverages either to eat in or take away, all prepared freshly to order. There is an opportunity to develop the business further by extending the trading hours as the present owners only trade from 8.30am to 4.00pm six days a week. Demand exists for longer hours with the possibility of providing a bistro style menu in the evenings. The business also offers the chance for new owners to develop a style of business to suite their own personal requirement. The property is presented to a high standard and provides a bright, contemporary and attractive main cafe/restaurant area which comfortably seats 40. There is also a commercial catering kitchen, a customer servery and welfare facilities. Outside to the rear there is a small enclosed yard and bin storage area. Fuel is a leasehold business and Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £39,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=207 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=207 City centre restaurant in Exeter opening with a Thai theme Jasmine Thai Restaurant will be opening at the end of June in the premises formerly occupied by Pasta Porto in Fore Street Exeter. The restaurant was sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter and has been bought by Golden Bush (UK) Ltd. The new owner had been looking for the right property for a while and, after considering other areas, felt that Exeter was a vibrant City offering the potential for success. The premises were well laid out and offered the right number of covers, as well as being extremely well equipped. The property is also a bit like a Tardis, substantially bigger inside than perceived from the outside. The restaurant is currently being restyled and refurbished and will hopefully re-open on the 30th of June. The seating has been designed so there are no “bad seats” and you can sit comfortably anywhere. The Jasmine Thai Restaurant will have a predominant Thai theme, but also offer a selection of Italian dishes and steaks, aiming to offer something for every taste. The business will also be run by experienced Thai staff, including the chef who has been in catering for over 21 year. The property is situated in a prime trading location fronting Fore Street, close to the High Street and main shopping areas. Once open, Jasmine will provide a ground floor restaurant for approx 32 diners, with stairs up to an atrium dining area offering 24 covers and a restaurant with a further 32 covers. The property also provides a well fitted catering kitchen with a comprehensive array of equipment and a range of ancillary areas. Stonesmith sold the lease on Pasta Porto off a guide price of offers in excess of £35,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=221 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=221 Quality licensed restaurant in attractive and renowned Dorset town A superb business opportunity has arisen in the eminent market town of Sherborne in Dorset. Trading as a licensed restaurant offering modern English cuisine, The Green in Sherborne, Dorset, is for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Green is a high quality restaurant offering simple elegance and style in both its cuisine and décor. Making the best of freshly prepared local produce, the restaurant has an excellent reputation and enjoys high levels of year round repeat business from both locals and tourists. The property is superbly presented and occupies a prominent trading position within Sherborne, which is an affluent and sought after Dorset market town dominated by its Abbey and known worldwide for its famous independent schools. The local regional centre of Yeovil is 5 miles away with the town having a direct rail link to London Waterloo and road links to the A303 connecting London to the Southwest. The restaurant is extended over 2 floors and is a Grade II Listed building. It provides at ground floor level, a main dining room with a bar, seating 40, with additional covers if required. The first floor has a private dining room with 30 covers and the commercial kitchens. Outside is a Mediterranean style walled garden providing l fresco dining and drinking for an additional 14 customers. The Green provides an excellent opportunity for new owners to acquire a thriving and well respected restaurant business with the ability to move in without the need for major expenditure. A full formal viewing is advised to fully appreciate this business. The present owners also admit that there is scope to increase turnover with additional marketing and advertising and by extend the opening hours, if so desired. A leasehold business, Stonesmith are seeking offers off a guide price of £175,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=220 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=220 Impressive detached coaching inn with 3 bedroomed owners accommodation. Reluctantly for sale due to illness, The Pound Inn at Coxley, Nr Wells in Somerset is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Pound Inn is a traditional country village inn and destination public house which enjoys a popular local following and strong all year round trade. As well as the support from the locals and surrounding villages the inn benefits from an influx of tourists during the summer months with a number of caravan sites and self catering accommodation in the area. The owners have established a good reputation for well kept ales and quality freshly cooked home made meals, including a popular Sunday carvery. The sales providing a trade split of 55% in favour of wet sales and 45% food sales. By their own admission they feel there is wider scope for the business as they have run it to suit their lifestyle. There is a demand for longer opening hours, especially in the summer, and an opportunity for more pro active advertising and marketing, including the need for a web site to advertise the letting rooms. Situated in a prominent trading position on the main Glastonbury to Wells road, the property is surrounded by beautiful Somerset countryside. A landmark character and detached village coaching inn, it is reputed to date back to 17th Century. Although it has been the subject of much improvement by the present owners over the past 5 years, they have carried out the work sympathetically and retained and enhanced many of the original features. The accommodation briefly comprises, at ground floor, a main bar with seating for 26 (plus ample standing room), a carvery room, a restaurant with 30 covers, a commercial kitchen and ancillary rooms. The first floor provides two en-suite letting rooms along with private accommodation spread over the first and second floors, providing a lounge, kitchen and 3 bedrooms. Outside to the rear there is a paved trade patio with a covered smoking area and seating for 20 customers. To the side and rear there is a substantial customer car park with spaces for approx 40 cars and beyond a garden area. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £545,000 for The Pound Inn http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=219 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=219 Quality detached village inn with excellent owner’s accommodation An award winning pub with letting rooms and sea views set in the famous and historic seaside resort of Westward Ho! in North Devon, is for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Village Inn is a popular local’s venue with a strong all year round trade, which is considerably boosted in the summer months from tourist. It is a charming family run pub presented to a high standard throughout. Over the past 11 years the owners have refurbished and upgraded the property and established a reputation for both well kept ales and quality home made food. The pub is also home to pool, crib and petanque teams and a golfing society and shows live sporting events as well as holding regular bingo and quiz nights. One of the areas the business has excelled in is with the letting accommodation which has been awarded 4 star status by EnjoyEngland.com. The village Inn also has its own web site www.villageinndevon.co.uk which helps to bring in extra business. The property is situated in the heart of Westward Ho!, made famous by the writer Charles Kingsley and renown for its long sandy surfing beach and champion golf course, reputed to be the oldest links course in the country. The inn is in a prominent position overlooking the village centre and just 9 miles away from the regional centre of Barnstaple with connections to the North Devon link road and M5 at Tiverton. The Village Inn is a deceptively spacious detached property dating back to the 1750’s. It provides a main bar with approx 26 covers, a conservatory for 20, a lounge bar and restaurant with a further 50 covers and a well equipped catering kitchen. There are 4 en-suite letting rooms, two with sea views. There is also a spacious owner’s apartment. Outside to the front there is a customer car park for 20 plus vehicles and beyond this petanque piste’s. There is also a raised trade patio and smoking shelter. To the rear there is an enclosed patio garden with seating for approx 28 and private gardens. A leasehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £99,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=218 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=218 Impressive detached village inn on the market for the first time in 30 years! Having been in the same hands for the past 30 years the successful and popular Exeter Inn at Chittlehamholt, North Devon has come on to the market with licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Exeter Inn is a renowned and traditional country village inn and destination public house. It has a well established reputation, a strong year round trade and a loyal local following. The inn is home to darts and cricket teams and a golfing society. A profitable food led business, the Inn provides fine locally sourced and freshly produced meals and quality ales and wines. The reputation of the inn brings customers from a wide area who are also attracted to the atmosphere, character and warm friendliness throughout. This ensures a good level of repeat trade with a slight uplift in the summer months from tourists. In addition the Exeter Inn has built up a flourishing letting side providing accommodation all year round including weekend golf breaks. The separate letting units are let weekly in the summer/peak season and on six month lettings in the winter months. The owners have marketed the business well and have their own web site www.theexeterinn.co.uk with the letting cottages also being marketed through specialist holiday letting agents. The property has been extensively improved and constantly upgraded over the past 30 years, especially during the last 4 years with the addition of a conservatory dining room and the complete refurbishment of the catering kitchens. A substantial and deceptively spacious, detached village Inn, its origins date back to the 16th Century. A Grade II Listed thatched Devon coaching Inn it retains much of the “Olde Worlde” charm and character, including heavily beamed ceilings, wall timbers and Inglenook fireplaces. The property is situated in the centre of Chittlehamholt, which is a delightful, rural and sought after village, lying between the Taw and Mole Valleys in one of the prettiest areas of Devon countryside and woodlands. It is 11 miles from the regional centre of Barnstaple and enjoys easy access to the North Devon Coast and Exmoor National Park. The Exeter Inn is presented in first call order throughout, and while the subject of much upgrading etc, the owners have sympathetically retained the charm and many of the original features. The accommodation briefly provides a main bar, lounge bar, back bar and conservatory dining room with a combined total of 66 plus covers, a well equipped catering kitchen,3 en-suite letting rooms, a 2 bed letting suite, 3 self catering cottages and 2 bedroomed owners accommodation with a lounge, galley kitchen and a bathroom. Externally to the front of the property there is a gravel trade terrace with seating for 20 customers and parking for 20 plus vehicles. To the rear there is an enclosed trade garden, private owners garden and private courtyards between the letting cottages. A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £775,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=184 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=184 Completely refurbished freehouse with spacious family sized accommodation. The Union Inn at Stibb Cross Nr Torrington in North Devon has been totally refurbished within the past 16 months and is regarded as being the focal point of village life, boasting a strong all year round trade. However the business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter, due to personal reasons. The Union Inn has a loyal local following and is home to 2 darts, 2 pool, a euchre and a skittles team. There are also regular bingo nights and occasionally live music events. As well as the local trade there is an influx of visitors in the summer months due to a number of caravan sites and self catering establishments in the local vicinity. The Union Inn has established a good reputation for well kept ales, good food and warm hospitality, with the trade split equally between food and wet sales. It is a well regarded business which still offers genuine potential to develop all aspects of the trade. The pub can be viewed on its own web site www.theunioninndevon.co.uk A traditional country village pub, The Union Inn is situated in the centre of Stibb Cross, Nr Torrington on a large corner plot fronting the main North Devon, Bideford to Launceston/Holsworthy road and is well positioned to capitalise on an all year round passing trade. The property is detached and predominantly two storey, with a more recent single storey extension. The accommodation briefly provides ground floor trade areas consisting of a main bar with 50 plus covers, a dining area with 8 covers, a pool room with 14 covers and a fully equipped catering kitchen. The private accommodation is on the first floor and provides 4 double bedrooms, a family bathroom, a lounge and a kitchen/diner. Externally the property has a small forecourt to the front with customer seating, an enclosed trade garden with a barbecue and smoking shelter, with seating for 50 plus, to the rear and parking for over 25 vehicles. Stonesmith are selling the business with two options either the freehold with a guide price of £395,000 or the leasehold at £45,000 with a rent guide of £25,000pa. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=183 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=183 Traditional coaching inn with 5 letting rooms, set in over an acre of grounds. Believed to be the highest inn on Exmoor Previously trading under management, The Culbone at Porlock, Nr Minehead in Somerset has recently been bought by new Porlock based company, Pips Pubs run by Lesley and Tony O’Shaunessy. The Culbone is undergoing a major refurbishment programme and the new look is to be unveiled when they re-open in mid July 2011. The new look bar and dining area will provide covers for approx 50 with a more relaxed lounge bar providing a further 20 covers. They are in the process of recruiting new staff including an experienced chef, who they are looking to provide fresh seasonal food with a specials board and an emphasis on steak meals, bringing contemporary casual dining to the area. In the daytime the pub will be a more casual and relaxed, family, tourist and dog friendly environment and in the evening it will provide a more upmarket drinking and dining experience. The Culbone has 5 en-suite rooms, which they are also in the process of refurbishing. Each room will then provide comfortable and stylish accommodation with a contemporary design and style. Externally the grounds and gardens are being enhanced and will provide a further 50 – 70 alfresco covers during the summer months, with parking for 40 plus cars. The Culbone Stables Inn is situated at the top of Porlock Hill at the head of the Doon Valley with panoramic views across Exmoor Forest. It is within the Exmoor National Park on a busy tourist route just off the main A39. Believed to be the highest inn on Exmoor, the business is also close to the coast with Porlock, Lynton and Lynmouth all nearby. A freehold business, Stonesmith sold The Culbone off a guide price of £545,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=216 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=216 Impressive AA 2 star landmark hotel with 9 en-suite bedrooms, 2 bar areas, a restaurant, function room, dining/meeting room and residents lounge. With a reputation for being the premier hotel in the town, The George Hotel in South Molton, Devon, is an impressive business and property, with an enviable year round trade and established following. Having been in the same hands for the past 7 years it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The George Hotel has a strong following and attracts regular accommodation custom with visitors returning for both business and pleasure. The hotel is established as a popular restaurant and bar with non-residents and it also boasts a programme of regular live events, which are well supported. The George also has a useful web site www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk which brings in valuable bookings for the accommodation, functions, private parties and live events. The George Hotel still offers new owners the opportunity to build upon all aspects of the trade, especially by developing the daytime non-resident food and beverage trade and planning permission exists to create 3 additional en-suite letting rooms. The property is situated in a prominent position in the town of South Molton, which lies to the south west boundary of Exmoor National Park. The town has a thriving business park with national, international and local companies that bring business to the hotel. The property, which has been completely refurbished in the last 4 years, is an impressive Grade II listed, 3 storey, building with origins dating back to the 1730’s. The interior lay out provides at ground floor an entrance/reception hall/area with an office, a bar with 10 covers plus standing room, a lounge bar and restaurant with 30 covers plus, a private dining/meeting room for 16, a large function room for 100 a residents lounge and a commercial catering kitchen with various ancillary areas. The first and second floors provide 9 en suite letting rooms with an owners apartment. To the rear the hotel has parking spaces for 12 cars. Privately owned, The George Hotel is for sale off a guide price of £675,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=215 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=215 REDUCED BY £20,000! Favourable free of tie village pub with 15 year lease Situated in the mid Devon village of Chawleigh, and dating back to 17th Century, The Earl of Portsmouth is a former coaching Inn on the ancient Barnstaple to London road. Originally called the London Inn, the initial thatched building was destroyed by fire in 1869. It was rebuilt and named after the Estate owner, The Earl of Portsmouth, and is still known as this today. Trading as a free of tie leasehold business it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Earl of Portsmouth is a traditional country inn and serves a good range of home cooked meals and traditional pub grub dishes. It is a popular locals pub attracting custom from the immediate area and surrounding villages and supports its own in house pub sports teams including 2 skittles and a pool team as well as holding regular hunt and young farmers meetings. The turnover is split 60%/40% in favour of wet sales, though there is plenty of potential to increase all aspects of the business, especially by developing the food side. Situated in the heart of the village, The Earl of Portsmouth is ideally situated for access to Exmoor, Dartmoor and the North Devon Coast. The market town of South Molton is 11 miles away with Barnstaple and the city of Exeter both within 20 miles and the main Barnstaple to Exeter rail line just 2 miles away. A substantial property it provides trade areas on the ground floor comprising a public bar with 30 covers, a 30 cover restaurant and two skittle alleys, one which doubles up as a function room with a further 30 covers. There is also a commercial catering kitchen, freezer, fridge and log stores and a beer cellar. The first floor offers good sized family accommodation with 3 double bedrooms, a lounge and a family bathroom. Outside to the front and side of the property there is a private car park for approx 20 cars. There is also a landscaped and enclosed trade garden with seating for 30, adjoining a courtyard patio and covered smoking area. Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £40,000 for the free of tie lease http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=187 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=187 Busy wet led local with the potential for food. Due to retirement and after 7 years in the same hands, The New Inn at South Molton, North Devon is for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The New Inn is family run and over the past 7 years the owners have established a strong all year round trade with a solid local support. A community pub, they host the South Molton Racing Pigeon Club, South Molton Badminton Club, a local running club and is home to 3 skittles, a pool and a darts team. It is also a popular destination for live football and popular sporting events shown on TV. Through choice the owners operate the business as a wet led trade only. Therefore there is considerable scope to introduce food, for which a demand exists locally. The New Inn occupies a prominent corner position in the heart of South Molton, which is a thriving and popular market town and known as the gateway to Exmoor, and the Exmoor National Park, with its outstanding scenery and excellent sporting and recreational facilities. South Molton also benefits from being close to the North Devon Coast, which is famous for surfing and sandy beaches. A deceptively spacious property, it is well presented throughout and has been sympathetically maintained and upgraded during the present owners time. The accommodation briefly provides a main bar and a pool area with covers for 40 (plus extra standing room) and a first floor skittles alley with seating for 40 plus. There is also a store room, bottle store and beer cellar. The private accommodation provides a ground floor sitting room and kitchen with 5 bedrooms a bathroom and a study/office on the first floor. Outside to the rear there is an enclosed trade courtyard with a part covered smoking area and seating for 28, a substantial garage area, off road parking for 3-4 vehicles and further store and workshop areas. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £250,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=178 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=178 Impressive Grade II Listed thatched property set in 4 acres Set in a rural position on the fringes of the Dartmoor National Park and the outskirts of Chudleigh, The Highwayman’s Haunt is a well renowned public house and restaurant, which attracts custom from a wide catchment area. Previously owned by David & Sylvia Bowden and Neil & Julie Elliott is has recently been bought by Stephen and Jane Coles. After years of travelling the world Stephen and Jane decided it was time to take root again and were looking for a new business venture, which was food led, provided land and an opportunity to develop a style of trading to fit in with their vision. Stephen and Jane have already started to plan and prepare a new fresh look for the trade areas which combines a modern contemporary look that blends in and enhances the original features. As part of this Stephen is designing and making much of the furniture such as the oak tables and chairs. The new look will have a more tranquil ambiance with roaring fires in the winter and comfortable leather sofas. They have employed a new and innovative chef who is working along side them to produce a new menu using locally sourced and fresh seasonal produce. They want the dining experience to be relaxed with a quality and reasonably priced menu offering world classics, daily specials and good fresh fish. Their feature dish will be a Dutch board which is a sharing platter. Outside they are looking to introduce live music events (including regular Jazz sessions), summer picnics and weddings etc. All of this will be advertised on the pubs web site www.thehighwaymanshaunt.com which, is currently being upgraded. An impressive detached, partially thatched, Grade 2 Listed building, The Highwayman’s Haunt dates from approx 1300. Internally the property briefly provides a lounge bar with 22 covers, sun lounge with 40 covers, lower restaurant with 21 covers, higher restaurant with 40 covers and a rear dining room with a further 24 covers. There is also a commercial catering kitchen with extensive back-up facilities and spacious 4/5 bedroomed owners accommodation. Externally the property is set in 4 acres of grounds, which provides formal gardens, trade gardens, a trade terrace for 114, vegetable gardens, a paddock, parking for approx 100 cars and various sheds, workshop/stores and a single garage. A leasehold business, Stonesmith sold The Highwayman’s Haunt off an asking price of £195,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=213 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=213 NEW 10 YEAR FREE OF TIE LEASE Substantial moorland freehouse with 2 owners flats Situated on the western fringes of the Dartmoor National Park, The Royal Standard at Mary Tavy is a substantial village pub set in a highly visible trading position. The property is now for sale freehold through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The present owners bought the property as an investment in 2007 and set about completely refurbishing it. The business has now been closed, however there is the potential to re-establish it as a viable destination food led village freehouse or, subject to planning, converted into B&B or residential accommodation. Located in the village of Mary Tavy on the A386 main road, which is particularly busy in the summer months, the property is approx 4 miles south of Okehampton and 6 miles north of Tavistock. A substantial and deceptively large property, The Royal Standard briefly comprises a main bar, dining area, commercial catering kitchen and two one bedroomed self contained flats, each with a lounge, bathroom and kitchen. Previously the property provided 4 bedroomed owners accommodation. Outside to the rear there is an attractive trade garden with views overlooking the moorland. There is also parking to the rear and front for approx 20 cars. A new 10 year private free of tie lease is now available and Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £25,000 with a rent guide of £15,000 pa. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=212 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=212 Former guest house in 2.5 acres in the heart of Dartmoor National Park Having previously traded as a guest house and tea rooms Moor Lodge at Two Bridges in Princetown on Dartmoor, is now for sale through specialist property agents Stonesmith of Exeter. Moor Lodge is a substantial Victorian residence with the potential to be re-established as a viable guest house/hotel. The present owner bought Moor Lodge in 1985 but has now retired. The property offers new owners a blank canvas to refurbish and refurnish the property and develop the trade to suit their own requirements, subject to necessary consents. Moor Lodge is a substantial detached property enjoying extensive views over Dartmoor National Park. Originally a gentleman’s residence it dates back to 1860’s. The property occupies a private position, but benefits from being adjacent to the B3356 one of the main routes across the moor, just 1 mile from the busy tourist destination. The historic market town of Tavistock is approx 9 miles away and Moretonhampstead 12 miles away. The property, which requires complete refurbishment, presently provides 11 bedrooms (9 which have been used for letting), a lounge, drawing room, dining room, 2 sun rooms, kitchen, office and various store rooms. Externally the property stands in over 2 acres of grounds which incorporates a car park for approx 12 vehicles, lawned garden with mature trees, shrubs and planted borders, useful outbuildings, stores and an adjacent walled pony paddock. There is also the option to purchase an adjoining 3 bedroom detached property called Cumberland House by separate agreement. As with the majority of business premises within Dartmoor National Park, Moor Lodge is subject to the favourable terms of a Duchy Lease. Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £400,000 for Moor Lodge http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=210 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=210 Busy 17th Century Inn, at the focal point of village life Trading as an impressive and delightful character village inn, The White Hart is a traditional country inn and destination public house with oodles of character and warmth. With strong levels of trade the business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The inn has a strong all year round trade and a popular local following, along with custom from surrounding villages and towns. The business also benefits from an increase in custom during the summer months as it is close to a number of caravan sites, self catering and B&B accommodation. Unopposed in the village, there is a strong following from the local neighbourhood and the inn is seen as the focal point of the community. The White Hart supports two darts teams, is home to Bridestowe Cricket Club and runs a popular monthly quiz. The current owners have established an excellent reputation for well kept ales and quality home made food, using the best locally sourced produce. At present the sales represent a split of 55% wets sales and 45% food sales. Though the owner admit they have not maximised the full potential of the business and have undertaken very little advertising, despite there being a demand for longer hours and more letting accommodation. The White Hart is situated in a popular and much sought after West Devon village surrounded by picturesque countryside and with excellent access to Dartmoor National Park. Bridestowe has an extremely active village life with a good range of local amenities. The building is reputed to date back to the 17th Century and is well presented throughout. Whilst being extended, improved and upgraded over the years, much of the original charm and character has been retained and the accommodation provides at ground floor a main bar with a games area and 30+ covers, a snug with 10 covers a separate 34 cover restaurant and a well equipped catering kitchen. There are also various stores, a laundry room, boiler room and beer cellar. The first floor provides owners accommodation and includes previously used letting rooms. This accommodation is flexible and presently provides a lounge kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms (3 en-suite) and a separate bathroom and W.C. Outside and to the rear of the property there is a lawned trade garden beside a stream, to the side a customer car park for 20 vehicles and to the front a further trade garden with benches for 30 plus customers. Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £475,000 for the freehold http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=208 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=208 Substantial landmark country inn with 9 en-suite letting rooms, close to the North Devon and North Cornwall coast A 16th Century former coaching house that is steeped in history, The Westcountry Inn at Bursdon Moor in North Devon is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The present owner has been at The Westcountry Inn for nearly 7 years, initially knowing they had a lot to do to re establish the business and with a large investment required to upgrade the property. Over the past years they have succeeded in both, having spent a great deal upgrading the trade areas and letting accommodation. The inn now enjoys a strong local following with a seasonal uplift from tourists. The Westcountry Inn has a strong all year round trade and benefits in the summer months from a number of caravan sites and self catering accommodation in the area. They have established a good reputation for food and offer a full carvery on Sundays. In the winter months they cater for local shoot parties. It is also home to two skittles, two darts and a pool team. A family run business, the inn has a turnover which is split 40% food sales, 35% wet sales and 25% accommodation. It has its own web site www.westcountryinn.co.uk and benefits from high profile main road signage. With all aspects of the business still growing, there is however scope to develop the trade, especially the letting rooms. The Westcountry Inn is a substantial and deceptively spacious property dating back to the 16th Century. Despite being upgraded over the years it has retained many of its historical features and much of its character. It is situated in a prominent roadside position, between Bideford in North Devon and Bude in North Cornwall, and surrounded by picturesque countryside with award winning beaches and stunning coastal walks close by. The property briefly provides a main bar with 36 covers, a games room, a snug with 16 covers, a 32 cover restaurant, a conservatory/overflow restaurant with 16 covers, a separate function room/carvery restaurant with 60 covers and a fully equipped catering kitchen with ancillary facilities. There are 9 en-suite letting rooms and spacious 3 bedroomed family accommodation. Externally the property is set in approx 2.5 acres which includes trade gardens, 2 paddock areas and extensive parking, together with an overflow car park for 100 vehicles including touring caravans. There is also a skittle alley and private garage. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £650,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=148 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=148 Competitively priced village freehouse Until recently the Swan at Merriott in Somerset operated as a traditional village freehouse, run for the past 6 years by a single licensee, on a tenancy basis. Having recently been closed, the property is now for sale freehold through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Swan traded lunchtimes and evenings with extended hours at the weekends. It sold a range of cask and keg products and offered a good choice of home cooked food. The pub also ran two winter skittles teams. There is now an opportunity to reopen the pub as a community led operation appealing to both locals and visitors. Merriott is a popular Somerset village 2 miles from Crewkerne and 7 miles from Yeovil. The village provides a good range of facilities and services, and has its own primary school. A Grade II Listed property, The Swan is arranged over two floors with a separate owners/staff cottage to the rear. It briefly provides an interconnecting main bar and dining room, customer welfare facilities, a catering kitchen, beer cellar and, with access from the courtyard, a skittle alley. The first floor provides a lounge, double bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. There is also a general store room that could be converted into a bedroom and a former function room, above the skittle alley, which could also be converted into further accommodation, with the necessary consent. Externally to the front is a small forecourt, at the rear is a central courtyard with access to the rear gardens, large paddock, skittle alley and separate cottage. The cottage provides a lounge, kitchen/diner, double bedroom and a bathroom. Stonesmith are inviting offers off a guide price of £215,000 for the freehold property. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=204 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=204 Unique in its name, quality detached village inn. Set in the picturesque East Devon village of Knowle Nr Budleigh Salterton, The Dog and Donkey public house is thought to be the only pub with this name in the country. Previously run by Richard and Bernadette Steer it has recently been sold to Catherine and Martin Allway by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Catherine and Martin have moved to Knowle Village with their twin daughters and baby son. They were looking for a semi rural village location and a business that was at the hub of the community. They found what they were looking for at the Dog and Donkey and have received a warm and friendly welcome. Catherine and Martin intend to carry on running the business as a traditional public house. They are carrying on with the traditional British pub grub menu but introducing new specials and extending the Sunday carvery from 12pm to 8pm. Their main aim, along with their new enthusiastic chef, is to use as much fresh local produce as possible. They also intend to only use produce that is seasonal and the menu will change quarterly. To enhance the menu they are looking at a new wine list with recommendations to suite the meals. With the help of their neighbour they will be competing in the Budleigh in Bloom competition, which the pub has regularly won in the past. They are also in the process of upgrading the web site www.thedoganddonkey.co.uk and there is a new sign coming to enhance the outside. The property is unopposed in the village and well positioned to attract passing trade. It also attracts business from the local towns and villages. A substantial and deceptively spacious detached 2 storey period building the accommodation briefly provides at ground floor the trade areas, with a main bar, T.V/ games room, snug, restaurant, function room and skittle alley and well equipped catering kitchen. The first floor private accommodation provides 4 bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen, a shower room and two balcony areas. Outside to the front there is parking for up to 10 cars and to the rear an enclosed trade garden and barbecue area. A leasehold business it was sold by Stonesmith off a guide price of £49,950 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=203 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=203 FREE OF TIE LEASE Refurbished and well regarded wet led town centre freehouse Having been completely refurbished and extended over the past 5 years, to a high standard throughout, the Exeter Arms in Okehampton, Devon, is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The present owners have built the Exeter Arms into a well regarded and popular wet led, free of tie, pub with a strong following and good all year round trade. The pub is a popular venue for live sporting events on T.V. and home to 5 darts teams, 2 pool teams, a crib team and the local football and cricket clubs. The purchase of the Exeter Arms provides an excellent opportunity to run and own a well supported public house with genuine potential to develop the trade further, especially by offering a regular food menu. The pub is situated in a prominent and highly visible trading position on the main road through Okehampton. It is a deceptively spacious terraced property which has been the subject of great improvements. This impressive freehouse provides at ground floor a main bar with 46 plus covers, a games room with 14 covers, a function room for 40 and a commercial catering kitchen. The first floor provides spacious private living accommodation with 4 bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen and private decked roof terrace. Outside to the rear there is an enclosed trade garden with seating for 50 and a heated smoking shelter with an outside television. There is also a private parking area with 4 spaces. The Exeter Arms is available with a new 10 year free of tie lease with a rent guide of £30,000 pa. Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £25,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=202 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=202 Impressive village centre freehouse Seen locally as the focal pint of village life, the Rose and Crown at Bower Hinton in Somerset is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Rose and Crown is a traditional country village pub and destination freehouse with a strong all year round trade. As well as having a good local following the business benefits from trade from the surrounding area and in the peak of the summer months from tourists. The pub has a good community spirit and is home to skittle and pool teams. It also holds regular quiz and charity nights and has its own face book address which the owners use as a marketing tool. A wet led business, the Rose and Crown trade split is 80% in favour of wet sales and 20% food sales. There is though scope to develop and increase the turnover, which, by the present owners admission, they have not maximised fully having chosen to run the business to suite their lifestyle. There is especially an opportunity to extend the current opening hours, particularly in the summer months. The pub is situated in the centre of the village which is surrounded by picturesque countryside. The village is particularly well known for its distinctive honey coloured hamstone properties which are indigenous to the area. Bower Hinton has excellent road and rail connections with the main A303 being 1 mile away and Yeovil just 5 miles away. The Rose and Crown is an impressive character end of terrace property which is believed to date back to 1783. It is presented in good order throughout and has been sympathetically upgrades and improved over the last 7 years. The accommodation briefly provides ground floor trade areas which include a main bar (40+) dining room (12) games room (12) a skittle alley and a catering kitchen. The first floor provides private living accommodation with a lounge, 3 bedrooms a family bathroom and a private roof terrace. Externally to the front of the property there is a seating area for 12 customers and to the rear there is an enclosed trade garden with a barbecue and seating for approx 20. The property also has a car park with 8-10 spaces. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £225,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=135 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=135 Impressive food led village pub with far reaching country views Over the past 5 years the owners of The Lamb Inn at Upton Noble in Somerset have built a solid all year round trade. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialist Stonesmith of Exeter and is on the open market for the first time in 15 years. The Lamb is a traditional country village pub with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It enjoys a popular local following with an active village community, as well as attracting custom from the surrounding area, and is unopposed in the village. A food led business it has built up a reputation for its traditional English dishes, which they pride themselves on as being home prepared, to a high standard and using quality local produce, cooked to order and the pub is especially popular for home made desserts. The success of the catering is reflected in the trade split which is 77% in favour of food and 23% wet sales. The present owners agree that there is scope still to grow the business as they have not maximised the potential. There is an opportunity to extend the current trading hours, (closed Sunday evenings and all day Tuesdays), and by introducing all day opening in the summer, for which there is a local demand. Very little advertising is also done and the pub does not have its own web site yet. The Lamb Inn is situated in the centre of this small Somerset village and surrounded by picturesque countryside with magnificent views over Longleat Forest and the Stourhead National Trust Estate. The property is reputed to date back to the 17th century and has retained its olde worlde character and original features with beamed ceilings and stone walls, though it has been sympathetically extended and upgraded over the years. The accommodation provides ground floor trade areas which include a main bar with 28 covers, overflow restaurant/games room with 14 covers and an impressive restaurant with a further 30 plus covers. There is a well equipped catering kitchen, a cellar, ancillary areas and welfare facilities. The first floor is laid out as owners accommodation with a lounge/dining room, 3 bedrooms and a family bathroom. Externally the owners have landscaped the trade gardens which provide beautiful seating areas surrounded by mature trees, shrubs and flowers. To the front there is an enclosed garden with seating for 14 and to the rear an enclosed garden with raised trade terrace for 36 plus with a private and enclosed owners garden. The property also provides a patrons car park with off road parking for approx 25. A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £465,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=201 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=201 An Impressive detached and spacious guest house set in 1/3 acre with sea views Set in an elevated position with spectacular sea and coastal views, Amber House in Paignton, South Devon is an impressive guest house with scope for growth. Trading as an upmarket licensed Bed and Breakfast business for 11 months of the year, Amber House is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Amber house is a high quality privately run business which is reflected in the 4*Guest Accommodation Award from Visit Britain a well as a Silver Award for exceptional quality and standards. These accolades ensure a good level of repeat business and recommendations. The business has its own web site www.amberhousehotel.co.uk which is in turn linked to a number of high profile accommodation websites and search engines. The property is set in a quiet residential area, just a short walk from the sandy beaches and seafront, in an area that is famed for its holiday trade. Amber House is a substantial and delightful detached property set in an elevated position with spectacular sea and coastal views. An impressive Victorian property which has been extended over later years, Amber House has been the subject of a major refurbishment programme over recent years and consequently it is beautifully presented and furnished to a high standard throughout. The property briefly offers; 10 Individual En-Suite Letting Bedrooms, six of which have sea views, Guest Lounge with Bar, Dining Room, a Kitchen, Ancillary Areas and Owner’s Accommodation which is currently configured as a Double Bedroom with an En-Suite Shower Room on the ground floor and an Owner’s Suite with Double Bedroom, Sitting Room and En-Suite Shower Room on the first floor. There is also a useful Attic Room with potential to create further accommodation. Externally, the property stands in around a third of an acre of grounds which incorporate ample car parking and an attractive garden with terraces and sea views. The present owners have run the business for the past 5 years and traded to suit their lifestyle, closing throughout January and on additional weeks and days in the year. There is plenty of scope to develop the business with longer opening, reconfiguring the accommodation, converting the attic and developing the non resident dining trade. Given the size of the property and the generous plot, there is also the potential to develop the property for alternative use, subject to planning. Amber House is a freehold property and Stonesmith are asking £649,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=200 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=200 With a reputation for outstanding bar and restaurant food the Lymington Arms at Wembworthy in Devon is a hidden gem. The business has an enviable all year round trade with a high level of repeat trade. Due to personal circumstances the business is reluctantly for sale, report licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Lymington Arms is a well established, award winning, country Inn providing locally sourced and freshly produced food, quality ales and wines. It boasts a solid local following, as well as attracting trade from the surrounding area and in the summer months from tourists. The inn has the advantage of being run by hands on owners, with the assistance of a highly experienced chef and full and part time staff. This has resulted in the business showing an impressive net profit with a trade split of 70% to food sales and 30% to wet sales. Though the business has a few letting rooms these have not been fully marketed in the past few years. The Lymington does though have a web site www.lymingtonarms.co.uk, however, no other formal marketing has been undertaken and many aspects of the trade could be developed, in particular by extending the current opening hours. The Lymington Arms is an impressive detached country inn dating back to approximately 1800. The property has retained much of its original charm and character despite being extended over the years. It has though been sympathetically upgraded and improved whilst keeping many of the original features. The property is situated on the outskirts of the village of Wembworthy in the heart of the Devonshire countryside above the River Taw valley and is just two miles from Eggesford train station, with a direct rail link to Exeter and Barnstaple. The property briefly provides an open plan bar and dining area with 40 plus covers, a separate restaurant with a further 50 covers and a well appointed catering kitchen. The owner’s accommodation provides 3-4 bedrooms with a large lounge and dining room (two of the bedrooms have in the past been used for letting). Externally the property benefits from lawned and terraced trade gardens, parking for 30 plus cars and various useful outbuildings. Stonesmith believe that The Lymington Arms represents an excellent opportunity for new owners to take over a well regarded inn with a profitable all year round trade, which still offers the potential to develop many aspects of the business. High quality businesses such as this are in short supply and rarely come on to the open market. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £525,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=137 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=137 Fresh juice, smoothie bar and cafe next to the famous Roman Baths and Abbey Set in a central trading position in the city of Bath and adjacent to the Famous Pump Rooms and Roman Baths, Juice Moose, juice, smoothie bar and cafe, has recently been sold and is now trading as Jacobs Coffee House. Previously owned by Elaine Edwards, who is now concentrating on other business interests, it has been bought by Jake Harris through licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Jake is a competent operator with many years experience in the world of catering. He had been looking far and wide for a catering business with potential and in a prime trading location and this business ticked all of the boxes. A well regarded juice and smoothie bar and cafe offering a range of freshly prepared juices, fruit smoothies and beverages, it also had an excellent reputation for quality home made hot and cold food. At present Jake is developing the range of beverages and looking to source a range of finest tea’s and coffee’s and in time will also be enhancing the food menu, whilst providing a top quality service, synonymous with the many independent retailers in the City. The cafe is situated in one of the best trading positions in Bath adjacent to the main tourist attractions. Bath offers a unique experience with stunning architecture, great shopping and iconic attractions. The property is positioned in an historic Georgian building and trades over three floors. The trade accommodation provides, at lower ground floor the main kitchen, with storage areas and customer welfare facilities, at ground floor has the main food and beverage servery and seating for approx 6 and at first floor a dining area made up of two adjoining rooms with feature fireplaces and a range of seating for 30 plus a sofa room with 10 covers and an office/store room. Outside to the front there is an alfresco trade terrace with seating for a further 16. The business attracted a great deal of interest and a sale was agreed within six weeks of coming on to the market after offers were invited for the leasehold interest. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=194 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=194 Substantial Grade II Listed town centre freehold A former town centre wet led pub, The Ship Inn at Kingsbridge has recently been sold by Stonesmith, and joint agents Alder King, off an asking price of £415,000. Acting for the administrators, Nigel Morison and Alistair Wardell of Grant Thornton UK LLP, the property was sold to Yelverton Properties Ltd, who have let the ground floor to Costa Coffee, and are developing the upper floors into residential accommodation. The property is a substantial end of terrace building arranged over 3 floors with modern 2 storey rear extension. The ground floor open plan bar was arranged in 3 areas providing covers for 70 plus with customer welfare facilities, cellars etc. At first floor, there was a 40 cover restaurant/function room, and catering kitchen. A 2 bedroom owner’s/managers flat was arranged at second floor level. There was also a useful external courtyard which provided seating for a further 20/25 customers. Kingsbridge itself is a popular South Devon town providing a range of everyday facilities, attracting high visitor numbers with easy access to Start and Bigbury Bays, Kingsbridge Estuary and other well known coastal towns including Dartmouth, Salcombe etc. The Ship occupies a prominent position in the heart of Kingsbridge being convenient for shoppers and visitors. National retailers close by include Peacocks, Boots, McColls, Barclays and the Post Office, whilst the property is opposite the main shoppers car park with the Tourist Information Centre located at the head of the Quay, which is extremely busy throughout the holiday season. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=193 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=193 Prominent landmark freehouse with outstanding views over Dartmoor Situated in a prominent trading position and close to the popular market town of Tavistock, The Leg O’Mutton at Yelverton has recently been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The property was previously owned by a national pub company and was operated as part of their tied trade estate until closing in April 2010. Until then it traded as a destination village pub with traditional pub food. A substantial semi-detached property, with side and rear extensions, the Leg O’Mutton benefits from having a slightly elevated position with tremendous views over Dartmoor National Park. The accommodation briefly provides a main bar, restaurant, catering kitchen, beer cellar, dry goods stores, bottle stores, and superior 5 bedroom owners accommodation with a lounge, kitchen/breakfast room, office, family bathroom and separate shower room. Outside there is a lawned beer garden and a trade patio, barbecue area and purpose built smoking shelter. There is also a main car park with 40 spaces with further parking available to the front of the property. A freehold property Stonesmith sold the property for an undisclosed figure in excess of the £325,000 asking price. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=191 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=191 Village centre pub/restaurant with letting rooms Situated in the rural village of Beaford in Devon and benefitting from being the only pub in the village, the Globe Inn has been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. A Grade II listed character village freehold it trades as a traditional country inn serving a range of cask and keg ales and home cooked food, with a trade split of 50%/50% food to wet sales. Being the only pub in the village it has a local following as well as attracting business from the surrounding area. Beaford lies in one of the prettiest areas of the county surrounded by rolling Devonshire countryside and is within a 30 min drive of both the North Devon and North Cornwall coast. The village has a good range of amenities including a primary school, village hall, petrol station with a small shop and the renowned Beaford Art Centre. The property is understood to date back 300 years though it has been the subject of complete internal and external refurbishment in recent years. The bar areas have been enhanced though they have kept their traditional character. The accommodation briefly provides a main bar and dining area with approx 30 covers, pool area, catering kitchen, 5 bedrooms (4 en-suite and used previously for letting), lounge and separate bathroom. Outside to the rear of the property there is an enclosed car park with 12 plus spaces and adjacent is a small trade garden with 4/5 picnic benches. There is also a store room and derelict barn. A popular village freehouse, The Globe was sold for an undisclosed figure by licensed property specialists Stonesmith http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=190 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=190 Substantial Grade II Listed townhouse, formerly run as a hotel and restaurant Situated in the heart of the historic East Devon town of Ottery St Mary, Normandy House is a Grade II Listed Georgian townhouse, which formally ran as a restaurant, wine bar and hotel. It has recently been bought by experienced restaurateurs and hoteliers James and Karen Peglar who are moving to Ottery from Gloucestershire with their daughter Robyn, report licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter James and Karen are in the process of completely refurbishing the property, with a Georgian theme and a view to reopening in April as a restaurant with letting rooms. They plan to open the restaurant first, which will offer bistro style food. Karen will be designing the menu and as chef cooking the meals, ably assisted by daughter Robyn. Once the restaurant is up and running their aim is to open the basement bar and by the summer be fully operational with the addition of three luxury en-suite letting rooms. Normandy House occupies a prominent position in the town centre and opposite St Mary’s Church, the jewel of Ottery. It is a four storey terraced property, in a Conservation Area, with the benefit of unrestricted parking outside. Ottery is a thriving town with a good range of facilities and amenities. Predominantly brick built the building provides a basement bar/restaurant with the potential for 20 covers, a ground floor restaurant with 30 up to covers, a small office and a kitchen, first floor letting accommodation with 3 en-suite letting rooms, an office and utility and on the second floor private owners accommodation providing a lounge, kitchen/diner and two en-suite bedrooms. Outside to the rear of the property there is an enclosed and secluded terrace area which James and Karen plan to upgrade and landscape and make into a relaxing trade area for the summer months. The freehold property was sold by Stonesmith off a guide price of £250,000 having been previously marketed by local estate agents for over a year. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=188 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=188 Popular unopposed East Devon country inn spacious enough for two families Situated in the sought after East Devon Village of Talaton and surrounded by picturesque Devon countryside, The Talaton Inn at Talaton has come on to the market with licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. A deceptively spacious property, it has been in the same hands for the past 8 years. During this time the owners have established an excellent reputation for both well kept ales and good value, freshly prepared, home cooked food. The current trade split being 60% in favour of food sales to 40% wet sales. The Talaton has a strong local following and benefits from being the only pub in the village. It has a strong all year round trade and attracts custom from not only the locals but villages and towns close by. In the summer months there is a slight increase in sales with a number of B&B’s and self catering accommodation in the area. Seen as the focal point of village life, the inn boasts 6 skittles teams, 2 darts and a euchre team. There are regular themed events, an in house skittles league, quiz nights and occasional live music events. Talaton is an active village with a good range of local amenities. It is also an ancient village that is mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Talaton is a much sought after and affluent village situated 6 miles west of the famous historic lace making and market town of Honiton and 12 miles east of the city of Exeter. A deceptively spacious property it dates back to the 17th Century with much of the character and many of the original features retained. The building has over the years been extended and the present owners have considerably upgraded and improved it during their time, including more recently a new roof. Large enough for two families the property provides at ground floor the trade accommodation with a main bar for 40 plus, a 50 cover restaurant and a smaller 10 cover dining room, a skittle alley/function room with 100 covers and a well equipped catering kitchen. The private accommodation is on the first floor and divided into two separate apartments. The first apartment has a sitting/dining room, kitchen, 5 bedrooms and a family bathroom and the second apartment has a lounge/dining room, a kitchen, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. Outside there are various seating areas with tables and benches for 70 customers as well as a smoking area, a private garden with a feature patio and pond (previously used as a trade are) and a large car park for approx 40 vehicles. Also to the rear at first floor level there is a private roof patio/decked area with views over the surrounding countryside. There is still scope to develop the business, as the present owners choose to operate within the more traditional hours. There is an opportunity to extend the opening hours and develop the catering . Quality freehouses in sought after villages with excellent living accommodation and high levels of profitability such as The Talaton Inn, are in short supply and are rarely available on the open market. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £625,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=175 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=175 Constructed in the 1930’s, and retaining many of the original Art Deco features, The Jubilee Inn at West Anstey, Nr South Molton, North Devon is a substantial country inn on the fringes of the Exmoor National Park and set within 2 acres of ground. Trading as an established public house it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Jubilee Inn is a destination pub with a popular local following and a strong all year round trade. It also attracts trade from the surrounding villages and tourists visiting the area. It is also home to 3 skittles, 2 pool and a darts team. Predominantly a wet led business with a trade split of 75% to 25% to wet sales, the business offers great scope to develop all aspects of the trade but especially the catering. There is also an opportunity to extend the opening hours as the business is currently run to suit the owners and the Premises License is not fully utilised. The present owners have though embarked on numerous projects to improve and upgrade the property whilst keeping many of the original features. The Jubilee Inn is situated on the main B3227 midway between the villages of East and West Anstey, just 5 miles from the North Devon link road, and is a distinctive land mark with its green tiled roof. A substantial detached property it is set in 2 acres of land. The trade accommodation provides a lounge bar, restaurant and public bar totalling 57 plus covers. The restaurant also doubles up as the skittle alley with demountable fittings. Back up facilities include a comprehensively equipped catering kitchen, office, beer cellar and bottle store. The private accommodation comprises a lounge, 4 bedrooms, a bathroom and private roof terrace. Externally there are spacious grounds with a trade terrace and lawned garden providing 32 plus covers and a customer car park for approximately 80 vehicles. There are also private lawned areas to the front and rear and various useful outbuildings, including 3 garages and stables with a further paddock area nearby. The sale also includes a 65ft polytunnel where the owners can grow their own fresh vegetables, fruit and herbs. The Jubilee Inn provides an excellent opportunity for new owners to purchase an established public house in a desirable area with genuine scope to develop all aspects of the trade. A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £450,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=56 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=56 Delightful and historic “Chocolate Box” thatched village inn with 2 letting rooms Situated next to the church in the small East Devon village of Yarcombe and surrounded by picturesque countryside, The Yarcombe Inn has come on to the market through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Yarcombe Inn is a delightful and historic Grade II Listed character thatched village inn dating back to 9th Century. It has retained much of its original charm and features, including slate flooring, beamed ceilings and leaded windows. Steeped in history the property is reputed to have originally been a 9th Century monastery. Later on it was reporter to have been owned by Sir Francis Drake and it is believed that Nelson once stayed there. A traditional country inn and destination public house it is situated in a prime position to benefit from significant passing trade and regular custom from nearby towns and villages. The business is presently closed but previous accounts have shown a turnover in the region of £125,000, which has been achieved with limited opening hours. It has also previously benefitted from providing letting accommodation. As the business is currently closed, due to unforeseen circumstances, The Yarcombe Inn represents an opportunity to purchase a classic English village inn in a prominent trading position with the opportunity to develop a style of trade to suit. The property briefly comprises a main bar with 30 covers, a 34 cover restaurant, skittle alley/function room and a catering kitchen on the ground floor with 2 en-suite letting rooms and 2 bedroomed owners accommodation. Externally the property benefits from a trade terrace to the rear with far reaching views of the countryside and to the front customer parking for approx 11 cars. A freehold property, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £395,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=171 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=171 Bespoke 4 barrel brewery plant with unique recipes Established in 1998, and originally trading as Scattor Rock, Gidley’s Brewery at Christow has been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Previously owned and operated by Geoff Mann the business has been bought by Paul Arrowsmith and his partner Margaret West who were specifically looking for a small, local, production based business with potential for growth in today’s challenging economic times. On their second viewing they realised that the brewery offered everything they were looking for, as it provided 3 quality recipes with the scope to add more, an established South West client base and whilst it brewed up to 30 casks a week it had the capacity of brewing up to 60 casks a week. At present Paul says they are “consolidating their place in the market, which is a challenge as Devon has a strong tradition for small locally producing brewery plants similar to Gidley’s”. Paul has taken on the position as head brewer, along with all of the operational roles and has already increased their activity and production in particular aiming at the home consumption and party market with 9, 18 & 36 pint beer in a box and 5L take home Party Packs of ales available. Looking ahead they are hoping to expand the product list, introduce a light ale and enter a range of alternative consumable markets. They are presently experimenting with beer based condiments such as real ale vegan chutneys. Gidley’s is a purpose equipped industrial unit on the outskirts of Christow in the Teign valley. It is a bespoke 4 barrel brewery plant capable of producing over 4500 pints a week and is a member of CAMRA the real ale campaign. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith commented “we received unprecedented levels of interest in Gidley’s Brewery from throughout the UK and we were delighted that a sale was concluded to local purchasers who recognised the potential to building on an established Westcountry brand and further developing the product range and market penetration. We would like to take this opportunity to wish Paul and Margaret every success with their new venture.” A leasehold business Stonesmith sold Gidley’s off a guide price of £39,950 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=182 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=182 Fully refurbished village centre cafe and fine dining restaurant A hidden gem, The Coachmans Rest in Broadclyst, Nr Exeter has recently been sold by licensed property specialist Stonesmith of Exeter. Previously owned by Paul and Jacey Broom, the new owners are experienced restaurateurs Darren & Louisa and Debra & Stephen. Darren and Louisa live in the village and for the past two years while driving past always said that if ever the property became available they wanted to buy it. That dream has now come true, and along with partners Debra and Stephen, they are excited about their new venture. The restaurant has been closed for a total refurbishment and is due to re-open during November 2010 under the new name The HH Cafe & Restaurant and can be viewed on www.the-HH.co.uk . It will then operate as a daytime cafe, serving fresh coffee, pastries, light lunches and cream teas, and in the evening it will become a fine dining restaurant providing quality food and wine, using fresh local produce. While the owners will be ‘hands on’ running HH they are delighted to have on board, experienced and well known local chef Craig Sampson. A 17th century property, it has been completely refurbished while preserving many of the original features, including a new ultra modern and well equipped kitchen, new bar area, new windows and new oak flooring. New furniture and comfortable seating has been added and HH now offers a warm welcoming atmosphere while maintaining much or the original character. Outside the restaurant has been decorated and the rear parking area tidied and opened up to provide more space. The property fronts the busy B3181 through the sought after village of Broadclyst, 5 miles from the centre of Exeter and in the heart of the National Trusts Killerton Estate, and is surrounded by beautiful countryside and woodlands. The HH cafe and Restaurant now provides fine dining for 30 to 40 with a first floor private dining room for 10 to 15. Outside there is a lawned area to the front, a 12 plus vehicle car park to the side and a large enclosed garden to the rear. Mike Phillips of Stonesmith commented “we are delighted to have assisted Louisa, Darren, Debra and Stephen with the purchase of The Coachmans Rest and the sale is further evidence that despite much economic uncertainty, confidence remains strong in the Westcountry catering sector. A leasehold National trust property it was sold off a guide price of £79,950. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=181 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=181 Exceptional Moorland hotel with outstanding views bought by experienced local couple A substantial and attractive detached property, the Lydgate House Hotel at Postbridge on Dartmoor, boasts spectacular views over the Dartmoor National Park. With 7 well appointed and individual en-suite letting rooms the business has recently been sold by licensed and hotel property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Previously owned by Anna and Douglas Geikie, the new owners are experienced operators Karen and Stephen Horn from Cheriton Bishop. Karen is a highly experienced chef and Stephen has worked in the hotel and licensed business for many years. Together they previously ran The Old Thatch at Cheriton Bishop 7 years ago. Karen and Stephen were attracted to the Lydgate House Hotel by its stunning location and beautiful layout. They are continuing to run the hotel where Anna and Douglas left off but in the future they are looking to open the restaurant up to non residents and to re-introduce afternoon teas. All of the information will be available on their web site www.lydgatehouse.co.uk The hotel prides itself on having an established reputation for the quality of its accommodation and service and as such benefits from excellent levels of repeat business, which Karen and Stephen will continue and build on. Where as the hotel was previously run as a lifestyle business and operated 11 months of the year, Karen and Stephen will be fully hands on and open throughout the year. They will offer bed and breakfast accommodation with the option of two or three course evening meals, with the emphasis on home cooking and local produce. As a mark of the success of the business, it has been selected by the Good Hotel guide and is featured in the Michelin Guide and Alistair Sawday’s Special Places to stay. Lydgate House Hotel is in an enviable location with outstanding views across the surrounding countryside and the Dartmoor National Park. It is situated in the village of Postbridge, 8 miles from Moretonhampstead and 12 miles from Tavistock. Postbridge is famous for its clapper bridge and a popular year round tourist destination. A Victorian building, with origins dating back to the early 1900’s, it has over the past 8 years been substantially refurbished and is now beautifully furnished and presented to a high standard throughout. The accommodation briefly provides 7 en-suite letting rooms, a guests lounge and bar, conservatory dining room, fully equipped kitchen, self contained owners accommodation with 3 bedrooms, 2 shower rooms and a lounge. Externally the property stands in 36 acres of land with its own private valley, woodland, pastureland and paddocks. There are formal gardens surrounding the property including a large decked area and adjoining sun terrace with a purpose built barbecue. The sale also included 3 barns which have planning for conversion into further owners accommodation, luxury letting suites or conference facilities. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith commented that “as with the majority of businesses within the Dartmoor National Park, Lydgate House Hotel was a favourable Duchy of Cornwall lease. This is the second Duchy lease that Stonesmith have recently sold, having sold the East Dart at Postbridge earlier in the summer. We wish Stephen and Karen luck with their new venture and this sale confirms that there is still an appetite for high quality manageable hotel opportunities throughout the South West”. Lydgate House Hotel sold off a guide price of £535,000 by Stonesmith http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=179 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=179 SUBSTANTIAL 4* HOTEL WITH 11 EN-SUITE LETTING ROOMS Having been the subject of almost total refurbishment over the past 6 years, and with the addition of new owners accommodation, Rowcroft Lodge in Paignton is now for sale and worthy of a full internal inspection, report licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. A substantial semi-detached, 4 storey, licensed hotel, Rowcroft is deceptively spacious and decorated to a high standard throughout. It boasts a 4* rating through EnjoyEngland.com and a high level of repeat business. The hotel is family run and also benefits from customer recommendations. It has its own web site www.rowcroftlodge.com which is linked and affiliated to a number of high profile accommodation booking sites. Rowcroft is well located to benefit from the abundant holiday trade which the area is famous for. The hotel still offers genuine potential for new owners to build on the existing trading levels and to develop all aspects of the business, as the present owners choose to trade Rowcroft only up to the VAT threshold. This could easily be increased with higher room tariffs, increased opening, the promotion of evening meals and further marketing. Rowcroft is an attractive property with views over Youngs Park and the sea beyond. It has recently benefitted from the addition of a spacious 2 bedroomed owners accommodation with a lounge, dining area, conservatory and luxury shower room, all decorated to a superior standard. The property offers 11 individual en-suite letting rooms, some with sea views, which can sleep up to 32 guests. There is a residents lounge, licensed dining room and bar and a well equipped catering kitchen. Outside there is parking for up to 11 vehicles, a double garage and a large block built store. The property also has enclosed gardens and to the front sun terraces with views to the sea. Stonesmith are looking for offers in the region of £499,950 for the freehold business. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=174 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=174 Attractive detached 16th Century farmhouse, trading as a B&B and seasonal cream teas. Wellington Farm is a substantial and deceptively spacious property that trades as a farmhouse bed and breakfast all year round and continues to provide the renowned cream teas. The property is set in the heart of Wilmington village, Nr Honiton. The business has recently been sold through licensed and leisure property specialist Stonesmith of Exeter The business was previously owned by Ian Atwell and Alan Candy and operated as a family run business, the new owners Lorraine and Kelly Montacute will be running the business along with their business partner Steve Bale. This is a new venture for Lorraine, Kelly and Steve who in the past have had various work experience within the hospitality trade. Lorraine said they were looking for a lifestyle business, with scope to develop, and somewhere too make their home. They plan to carry on with the existing bed and breakfast and cream tea trade and will be looking to provide holiday lets and to introduce themed dinners in the future and to make use of the extensive grounds they hope to provide stabled livery. They also plan to refurbish the property, but intend to keep the quirky style and character that makes Wellington Farm what it is today. They are also looking forward to village life and being part of the community, by support local events and employ local residents. Wellington Farm is a Grade II Listed property that dates back to the 16th Century. It provides 6 letting rooms, with two of the rooms being located in a separate detached cottage to the rear. The main sitting room and dining room are both character rooms with feature fireplaces and used by the guests. Adjacent is a kitchen that has been completely refitted. The owner’s accommodation briefly provides 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms a kitchen and a lounge. Externally, the property benefits from off-road car parking for 10 vehicles, a raised decked seating area for 50 customers, feature pond and land with spectacular country views extending to just over 5 acres with a detached barn, stabling and various useful outbuildings. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith said “The sale of Wellington Farm generated unprecedented levels of interest and multiple offers and proves that there are still buyers keen to enter the hotel and guest house sector throughout the South West. There has been an increase in activity throughout 2010 and by offering our clients a personal and bespoke service we are able to conclude transactions smoothly and effectively." A freehold business, Stonesmith sold Wellington Farm off a guide price of £550,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=172 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=172 Attractive hotel trading on a B&B basis only With stunning views over Torbay and beyond, The Shoalstone Hotel in Brixham is a substantial detached hotel set in an elevated position and operating presently on a B&B basis. After 12 years at The Shoalstone and with impending retirement the business is now for sale through licensed, leisure and hotel property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The owners have taken a more relaxed approach to running the hotel and have tailored the business to suit. They now only offer accommodation on a B&B basis and have restricted trading to 8 months a year. They also only let out 8 of the 9 rooms and, through personal choice, do not accept children. Subsequently there is tremendous scope to increase the current trade levels and develop all aspects of the business. There is also potential to increase the turnover by establishing a web site and actively marketing the hotel. Demand exists for all year round accommodation, family bookings, and dinner/B&B packages all of which the current owners presently do not undertake. The Shoalstone occupies an enviable position with magnificent views over the English Riviera and as far as Lyme Bay and Portland. The hotel is also close to the centre of Brixham which is renowned as one of the country’s principal fishing ports. The resort is presently benefiting from a new and impressive marina which has increasing the popularity of the area. During the owners time at the hotel they have substantially extended the property and carried out major refurbishments throughout, including superior owner’s accommodation. The property now provides 9 individual en-suite letting rooms (the majority with sea views), a residents lounge (with sea views), a lounge bar and a dining room (again with sea views). Back-up facilities include a catering kitchen, utility and office. The owner’s accommodation has been purpose built to a high standard and benefits from sea views throughout. It comprises a sitting room, dining room, kitchen 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. Externally to the front of the property there is an extensive patio/sun terrace, incorporating fish ponds, with spectacular sea views. There is a further sun terrace to the rear of the property along with parking for 12 vehicles, a summer house and 2 greenhouses. Stonesmith believe that The Shoalstone Hotel offers an excellent opportunity to purchase a business that has not been fully exploited and with potential for future growth. Manageable lifestyle business, such as The Shoalstone, in sought after areas and with bags of potential, is often hard to find. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £695,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=173 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=173 A well established village freehouse set in a prominent crossroad position, The Mount Pleasant Inn at Nomansland, Nr Tiverton, is for sale for the first time in over 20 years through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Mount Pleasant Inn draws its custom from a wide area and has built up an excellent reputation as a good quality local’s freehouse and destination food inn. Such is its reputation, it has for some years been listed in the Good Pub Guide. Benefiting from its location in a rural farming community the Mount Pleasant has close links with various local shoots and hosts regular lunches. The inn also supports the Tiverton Fox & Stag Hounds and sponsors the local point to point. In the summer the inn provides teas for two local cricket teams. The Mount Pleasant is also a popular venue for christenings, small weddings and private functions. Stonesmith believe there is still an opportunity to expand the business by converting the outbuildings to the rear of the property into 4/5 letting units. Planning consent was granted but this has since lapsed and needs re-submitting. The owners though have commented that they are regularly asked for B&B accommodation. Dating back to the 18th century, one end of the property was originally an ostler house, used to accommodate carriage drivers, whilst at the other end was a blacksmith's forge, which remained working until 1963. The inn is now a large attached property which has benefitted from considerable improvements both internally and externally. Internally the property features many traditional characteristics such as real fires, woodburning stoves and beamed ceilings. The trade areas consist of a main bar, 2 dining areas and a separate restaurant, totalling 106 covers. The private living accommodation is substantial and suitable for 2 families. There is also a trade garden and parking for approximately 30 cars. The Mount Pleasant Inn is a highly desirable high turnover and exceptionally profitable business opportunity and Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £695,000 for the freehold. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=139 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=139 A thatched pub in East Devon has recently been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter to local property investors. The Exeter Inn is situated in the popular East Devon village of Newton Poppleford on the main coast road between Exeter and Lyme Regis and 3 miles from the popular regency coastal resort of Sidmouth. A character Grade II Listed property its origins are believed to date back to 14th century, though it has modern extensions to the rear. The building has retained much of its character and many of its original features, including beamed ceilings, a large inglenook fire place and exposed stonework. Downstairs included a main bar, snug area, restaurant and commercial kitchen. The first floor provides accommodation and is laid out with 3 double bedrooms, a bathroom, lounge and kitchen/breakfast room. To the rear there is a purpose built function suite/skittle alley and enclosed trade courtyard. The property, which has been closed for 6 months, sold by best and final offers off a guide price of £210,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=170 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=170 Prominent city centre building sold to experience Indian restaurateurs For the past 50 years the former Judge Jefferys in Magdalen Street in Exeter has traded as a public house. It has now been acquired by local restaurateurs and will be reopening as an Indian restaurant report licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The property, which occupies a highly visible corner site close to the Southerhay office area and Southgate Hotel, is adjacent to the Magdalen Street car park, which has 96 spaces. It also benefits from 10-15,000 cars passing daily. The property was purpose built in 1950/60’s for Heavitree Brewery and in recent years traded as The Acorn, Branch Office, Judge Jefferys and latterly Tiggas Bar. The business was closed in September 2009 and has now been acquired by Ahmet Alnozir and Mahmudus Rhaman who will reopen soon as The Bay Leaf Restaurant. At present the property is being extensively renovated and refurbished, including a new restaurant area, commercial kitchens and customer welfare facilities. The property will then provide a ground floor restaurant with 80 plus covers with first floor managers flat and outside a small lawn and parking area. Stonesmith acted for the owners, a local investment company, and quoted a rent guide of £23,500pa. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=168 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=168 Impressive Grade II Listed community led freehouse Situated in a prominent landmark position in the centre of Bradninch in Devon, The Castle is an impressive Grade II listed freehouse with substantial and spacious accommodation. Previously owned by Alan and Maggie Taylor it has been bought by brothers Peter and Simon Turner, through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Attracted to The Castle because it is a well supported and friendly pub in a lovely small Devon town, Peter and Simon plan to carry on from where Alan and Maggie left off, whilst putting their own personal mark on the business. They have already introduced a new coffee machine, and offer freshly ground coffee throughout the day. The menu has been enhanced with fresh locally produced ingredients, and will change weekly offering classic home cooked pub meals and snacks. The pub now opens daily from 10am for tea, coffee, homemade cakes and non alcoholic beverages. Peter and Simon commented “The Castle is very much a community pub and offers a range of enthusiastically supported activities and pub sports teams including 3 skittles, 2 darts and a pool team. The pub is also a base for the local football team and holds quiz, karaoke and live music events, along with the regular folk and blues clubs. The Castle also has its own web site www.bradninchcastle.com which we will be using to promote future events” The property has been extended over the years and sympathetically upgraded and improved, while retaining its original charm and character. Deceptively spacious the property comprises an open plan bar for 50 customers, family games room, a large skittle alley/function room and a well appointed catering kitchen. The private accommodation offers 5 double bedrooms, a bathroom, a lounge and a kitchen. Externally to the front there are parking spaces for 12 vehicles and to the rear a trade patio, barbecue area, purpose built stage and a beer garden with extensive views of the countryside and seating for 90 customers. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith said “Despite much negativity throughout the market, there are still first time buyers keen to enter the pub sector. There has been an increase in activity during the first half of the year and by offering our clients a personal and bespoke service we are able to conclude transactions smoothly and effectively." A freehold business Stonesmith sold The Castle off an asking price of £525,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=167 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=167 Activity Site, Assault Course and Training Centre Previously used by the Ministry of Defence as a Second World War gun battery and training centre and now operating as an activity and training centre, The Fort Bouldnor Activity and Training Area in Bouldnor Woods on the Isle of Wight is available on a new lease, report specialist property agents Stonesmith of Exeter. Owned by The Forestry Commission, the site was decommissioned in the 1950’s and comprises a central training area and assault course with a range of concrete block built buildings including a 22 person bunkhouse, shower rooms and WC’s, kitchen facilities, meeting/lecture room, office building and reception, a timber clad accommodation building and various store rooms. The site extends to approximately 4.2 acres but the Forestry Commission are prepared to offer the new tenants the use of 120 acres of woodland, if required. Fort Bouldnor is suitable for a variety of training and outdoor pursuits or educational uses and the Forestry Commission are looking to issue a new lease, with flexible terms, off a rent guide of £15,000 pa. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=162 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=162 The Kings Arms in the centre of Winkleigh, in Mid Devon, is a classic thatched pub with a strong local following. With an excellent reputation and the pub boasts a strong all year round trade with exceptional profits in excess of £90,000 generated from a turnover of £485,175. There is now an opportunity to acquire this successful business through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. A quality public house The Kings Arms is featured in the Good Pub/AA guide and is renowned for serving cask conditioned ale. The pub would benefit from having a full time chef or an owner/chef who could develop the catering further. The Kings Arms is however a popular destination inn not reliant on tourism or the vagaries of the English summer. Winkleigh is an old Devon village steeped in history, which has grown steadily over the years. Situated between Dartmoor and Exmoor, today Winkleigh boasts 2 public houses, a Post Office, a butcher's shop, a wet fish shop, a general stores, a vets and a doctors' surgery. It also has a Community Centre, a Village Hall and a Sports Centre, together with a church, a chapel, and a primary school. The village is currently served by a bus service with a train service close by at Eggesford. Despite all of this growth etc the village has not lost its charm or character. The Kings Arms is a substantial detached, mainly cob building, which is deceptively spacious and Stonesmith recommend a full viewing to totally appreciate this exceptional property. Internally the property is full of character and days gone by, with beamed ceilings, wood burning stoves, exposed stone walls, flagstone floors, a feature well, antique furniture and bric-a-brac. The main bar has an ornamental style carving with regency settle seating and a feature inglenook fireplace. Throughout the pub there are various seating and dining areas providing covers for up to 75. Above the trade area is the private accommodation laid out as 2 areas, one providing a staff room, store, bedroom and bathroom and the other having 3 bedrooms, bathroom and kitchen. There is also access to an open loft space which could possibly be converted to further living space. There may be an opportunity to create 2 en-suite letting rooms. Outside there are trade patios with around 30 covers and a small kitchen garden. Whilst there is no car park with the property, free parking is available in the village square. Stonesmith are inviting all serious offers having just reduced the guide price to £64,950 for the leasehold business. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=141 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=141 Established as a high quality guest house, tea room and restaurant, the Hensleigh House is a family run business which has been built up over the past 11years. Due to the ill health of one of the owners the business is reluctantly for sale report licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Since owning the property, the present owners have invested heavily in Hensleigh House and developed the trade to 4 Star Guest accommodation Silver Award level, which reflects the quality and standard of the business throughout. Hensleigh House is run very much to fit in with the family lifestyle and as such trades full time from mid February to end October with limited opening throughout the winter. The tea rooms are open for breakfast and light lunches till 3pm seven days a week (5pm in school holidays). In addition evening meals are available to residents and non residents from Tuesday to Friday. Therefore there is scope to develop all aspects of the trade with longer opening hours and offering dinner, bed and breakfast deals throughout the year. There is an opportunity too advertise the business more, though the hotel has its own web site www.hensleighhotel.co.uk. There is also an opportunity, subject to the necessary planning consent, to increase the number of letting rooms, as 4 of the rooms on the first floor have previously been used for letting. The family accommodation is also spacious enough to suit two families. The property is situated on Lower Sea Lane, Charmouth, the main route to the coast and a short walk to the beach and Charmouth’s village centre. Charmouth is a sought after Dorset, coastal village and has been described as “an untouched coastal gem” Hensleigh House was built in 1920’s and substantially extended in recent years. It has been refurbished to a high standard and briefly provides 7 en-suite letting rooms, a conservatory restaurant c.30, dining room c.12, lounge bar and a fully equipped kitchen. The spacious and flexible owners accommodation is self contained and provides 5 double bedrooms, a bathroom, 2 lounges, office and a kitchen/breakfast room. Externally the property benefits from off road car parking for 13 vehicles, useful outbuildings, customer trade terrace c.30 and a private owners courtyard garden. Manageable businesses in such a sought after area and location do not come on to the market that often, especially those with such an enviable sized family home and income, with genuine potential for growth. Full internal viewing is recommended to appreciate all that the business has to offer. A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £750,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=159 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=159 Town centre restaurant sold to experienced chef Situated in a busy town centre trading position, The Cellar Restaurant in Tiverton has recently been sold. Previously owned by locals Angela and Gary Mulligan it has been bought by Brian and Polly McCurry, through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Brian and Polly, who now live in Tiverton were seeking a new business venture. Having moved to Devon from Northern Ireland 10 years ago, Brian has been a chef at some very well known hotel & restaurants in the area including Hotel Barcelona in Exeter and Woodbury Park Golf Club and Hotel at Woodbury. Previously a daytime cafe/bar and evening tex/mex restaurant, Brian and Polly have transformed it into a fine dining restaurant with lunchtime and evening opening hours. They have introduced a new menu which consists of fresh, cooked to order, high quality meals using locally sourced produce. They have introduced some set price two and three course menus’s and operate a lunch time special 12-2pm Tues – Sat, an early bird evening special between 6 & 7pm Tues - Thurs. From 7pm Tues – Sat, the full evening a la carte menu is available. Traditional Sunday lunch is served from 12 – 3pm. The Cellar restaurant is a purpose equipped lower ground floor restaurant with small bar, which has a ground floor entrance from the main shopping area in Tiverton town centre. The new owners have already refurbished the premises and have increased the covers in the main restaurant to 32 and plan to convert the rear room into a comfortable lounge area for pre and après dinner drinks. Mike Phillips of Stonesmith commented “The sale of The Cellar Restaurant follows a number of notable local restaurant and café sales concluded by Stonesmith in recent months and with sales agreed on many other catering businesses throughout Devon, demand remains extremely strong.” Stonesmith sold the leasehold business off an asking price of £29,950 and can be contacted on 01392 201262 or properties for sale downloaded from www.stonesmith.co.uk http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=158 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=158 4 Star guest house with 13 en-suite letting rooms, close to Exeter’s city centre Formed from two separate residencies in the 1970’s, The Edwardian guest house in Exeter has established itself as a well regarded Bed and Breakfast establishment. Occupying a prime landmark trading position close to the city centre, The Edwardian is now for sale through licensed & leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Over the past 4 years the present owners have built up a solid reputable trade, providing well regarded and high quality bed and breakfast accommodation. The Edwardian is family run and trades by owners choice on a bed and breakfast basis only. Therefore scope exists to develop the trade by offering evening meals. The property has been completely refurbished to a high standard throughout and has been rated as 4 Star guest accommodation by the AA. These high standards reflect on the excellent levels of repeat business and word of mouth recommendations. Whilst advertising is kept to local tourist guides and the AA, the business does have its own web site www.edwardianexeter.co.uk which is linked to a number of high profile accommodation sites. The Edwardian occupies a prominent landmark trading position on one of the main route in to Exeter. It is within 5 min of the main bus terminal, the city centre, including the new Princesshay shopping development, the Cathedral and Exeter University’s St Lukes campus. A substantial 3 storey end of terrace property The Edwardian has been extensively improved and upgraded during the past 4 years and is now beautifully presented and furnished throughout. The accommodation briefly provides 13 en-suite letting rooms sleeping up to 33 guests, a residents lounge, breakfast room and fully equipped kitchen. There is also owner’s accommodation. Outside to the rear of the property there is parking for 4 cars. Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £725,000 for the freehold business. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=97 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=97 Successful caterers take over cafe in Alice Holt Forest A new operator has been found on behalf of the Forestry Commission for the Alice Holt forest Café, by licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The new operators are John and Sally Hall who run the successful Oriel Restaurant at The Quay in Poole, Dorset. With nearly 20 year experience in the catering business, John and Sally have established a flourishing restaurant in Poole and felt that time was right to expand their operations with a new opportunity. Working closely with The Forestry Commission’s vision for the site, John and Sally operate a family orientated café and are investing heavily in redesigning the cafe and are in the process of installing a new kitchen. So far they have bought new furniture and coffee machines etc and will re-decorate once the new kitchen is installed. The cafe provides refreshments, picnic hampers to take away for the day, corporate catering and they work closely with the other businesses on site to provide bespoke catering for their specific needs, using locally sourced and organic produce and fair trade products such as tea, coffee and sugar with well balanced, well priced, fresh and home made meals. They also plan to open a separate ice cream kiosk on site and they invite all locals and regulars to make suggestions as to how they can improve the business. Looking further ahead, they would like to offer the facilities for private parties/functions and to hold mother and toddler meetings. Internally the cafe briefly provides seating for 30 plus, with a shop space and kitchen area. Outside there is a covered veranda and decked area with covers for 100 plus and a hard standing for a mobile ice cream unit. This is the second Forestry Commission cafe that Stonesmith have been involved with, having successfully secured operators for The Ridge Café at Haldon Forest near Exeter. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=154 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=154 Historic Dartmoor hotel and village inn with 11 letting rooms Situated in the attractive moorland hamlet of Postbridge, in the heart of Dartmoor is the famous and historic East Dart Hotel. Built in 1861 as a coaching inn, where travellers could take refreshments while the horses were changed, it then became a temperance house from 1880 to 1930 and no “evil drink” was sold. A full license was eventually granted in the 1930’s. The business has now been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter on behalf of Mary Bastin. The new owners are Paul and Rosie Joynson who have moved to Devon from Jersey with their children Dominic and Sylvia. Paul and Rosie love Dartmoor and the surrounding area and immediately knew that they wanted to set up home here. When they found The East Dart Hotel they fell in love with the property, its location and the friendly people. Since moving in they have been overwhelmed by the positive response they have had from the locals. They are keen to expand and develop the style of catering whilst continuing with traditional, home cooked, pub food. They have already increased the opening hours and availability of food with snacks available from 2.30 to 6pm and the full menu up until 9pm. Along with this the bar is now open from 11am to 11pm daily in the summer months. They also intend to upgrade all of the letting rooms and to refurbish the trade areas of the property, when time allows. The property is detached and provides a main bar with 60 covers, a resident’s lounge, restaurant/function room for 30, 11 en-suite letting rooms and a detached owners 3 bedroom cottage. Outside there are attractive trade gardens, customer car park, 2 stable blocks and a 2 ½ acre paddock. The East Dart is a Duchy property and was sold as on a free of tie duchy lease off an asking price of £395,000 by Stonesmith http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=153 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=153 A prominent end of terrace property, the Friendship Inn, in Plymouth is a business with potential. Situated close to the Naval Dockyard at Devonport the pub is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Due to other commitments the owner currently trades within extremely limited opening hours and on a wet sales only basis. Therefore there is considerable scope to develop all aspects of the business by opening longer and offering food. Offering the potential to completely change the style of the business into a food led bistro/wine bar or speciality restaurant with a take-away, for which there appears to be a demand in the immediate vicinity. The owner is looking to take early retirement and due to the casual nature of the business and extremely limited hours. The Friendship Inn occupies a prominent main road position close to the Naval Dockyard at Devonport. It is situated in a mixed area of commercial and residential properties, including a new luxury development of over 100 apartments. A deceptively spacious end of terrace property it is reputed to date back over 100 years. Spread out over 3 floors the accommodation briefly provides a main bar with 30 plus covers, kitchenette area, cellar and 3 bedroomed owners accommodation. A freehold property, suitable for multiple licensed/food use and with residential development potential, Stonesmith have recently reduced the asking price from £275,000 to £195,000 for a quick sale. The owner is also happy to look at a part exchange option should a suitable residential property be offered, i.e. cottage, detached house or upmarket apartment. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=84 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=84 Changes afoot for old pubs It is well known that the property market is cyclical and this is particularly so in the license trade. “We have gone through two serious recessions in our 20 years” reports Mike Phillips of Stonesmith. “In the early 1990’s there were various brewery and pubco disposals of underperforming pubs, some of which were then bought 10 or 15 years later by alternative pub groups desperate to increase their market share. We are now back to a similar position where all the large operators are restructuring their tenant estates with numerous closed pubs being offered for sale over the last 6 months or so”. However, every cloud has a silver lining, and these low cost properties offer excellent opportunities for alternative uses. Examples sold by Stonesmith recently include The Corner House in High Street, Crediton and the Cross Keys, Gold Street, Tiverton. Both were high street buildings with upper floors, that were sold to developers for conversion into flats with ground floor retail/commercial accommodation. Whilst some pubco disposals will remain as pubs, including for example The Old Union Inn at Stibbs Cross Nr Torrington and The Globe in Chulmleigh, they will again be operated hands on following substantial investment by the new owners. Old pubs also offer opportunities for alternative hospitality type uses and Stonesmith sold The North Country Inn in Barnstaple and dealt with Judge Jeffery’s In Magdalen St, Exeter, both going for speciality restaurants. Stonesmith believe these recent successes underline the popularity of the region and the general level of confidence. “Hopefully, the number of brewery disposals will reduce over the next 12 months allowing the private owner market to move forward again” state Stonesmith http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=144 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=144 Rural freehold and 2 bedroomed holiday cottage bought for preservation. Such is the unique traditional character of The Northmore Arms at Wonson, Nr Throwleigh, Okehampton, Devon, that the new owner has bought the property to preserve it as it is and retain it as a traditional country freehouse. Sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter on behalf of Mo Miles, who has been at the pub for 22 years, the new owner is known only as Curly who knew the pub well as he has regularly visited the area and the pub whilst game shooting. The new owner wants to keep the pub exactly as it is and ensuring the uniqueness of the Northmore Arms. Whilst there will be some minor changes to the catering side of the business, he is not looking to make the Northmore Arms into a gastro pub. The new owner will also be introducing some entertainment and themed evenings. Dating back to 1620, the property retains a very traditional atmosphere and has many original features including open fireplaces, exposed stone walls and beamed ceilings and comprises a main bar with 30 covers, a kitchen area and 3 bedroom owner’s accommodation. Externally there is the separate self-contained holiday cottage along with trade gardens, with views over Dartmoor, and a small paddock. The Northmore Arms is situated in the rural hamlet of Wonson on the north eastern edge of Dartmoor National Park, 6 miles from the market town of Okehampton. A freehold business, Stonesmith sold The Northmore Arms off a guide price of £400,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=150 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=150 Substantial and impressive village freehouse, in award winning village. Recently reduced Featuring in the Good Beer Guide since 2001, The Bell in Winsham near Chard is a character village pub which has been in the same hands for the past 10 years. During that time the owners have continually invested in the property and built a solid trade. The Bell is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. A traditional country village pub, The Bell benefits from a good local following and a reliable year round trade. As well as attracting business from the surrounding towns and villages, the pub gains from seasonal tourism. Winsham itself is an award winning village having won several prizes for village of the year etc. The current owners bought the business in 1999 and since have undertaken a comprehensive refurbishment of the property and developed a style of trade synonymous with a traditional village pub. A focal point of community life and home to 8 skittles teams the pub also has a Thursday quiz night. Predominantly a wet led operation with the sale split 65%/35% the owners have traded the business to suit their own needs and have not maximised the full potential of the business, therefore there is plenty of room for incoming operators to develop all aspects of the trade. Deceptively spacious the pub offers a main lounge bar, public bar, skittle alley and catering kitchen. The first floor provides spacious owners accommodation with 2/3 bedrooms (2 en-suite), a lounge and private kitchen. Outside there is a trade terrace to the side with 40 covers along with a rear enclosed beer garden with a further 30 covers. The property also includes a car park for 25 vehicles, a garage and storage area. A freehold business Stonesmith are inviting offers off a new reduced asking price of £395,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=147 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=147 Substantial Grade II Listed freehouse sold to local investor Acting on behalf of Enterprise Inns Plc, licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter have recently sold The Corner House Inn in Crediton. The Corner House traded as a town centre pub with a first floor Thai restaurant and has been bought by a local businessman as an investment to add to his extensive investment portfolio. The property is a substantial end of terraced Grade II Listed building arranged over four floors. It was arranged with a basement bistro and cellars, ground floor bar and customer welfare facilities, kitchens and a restaurant on the first floor and private living accommodation on the second floor. Outside to the rear there is a walled courtyard and parking for 2 vehicles. Stonesmith sold the property by best and final bids off a guide price of £285,000 and after a high level of interest. This is one of a number of pubs sold for alternative use over the last 6 months including The Cross Keys, Tiverton; The North Country Inn, Barnstaple and Judge Jefferies, Exeter. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=143 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=143 Devon Town Centre Freehouse Sold To Local Investors. Acting on behalf of Enterprise Inns plc, licensed property specialists, Stonesmith of Exeter have sold the freehold of The Cross Keys, Tiverton. The Mid Devon town pub has had a recent chequered history and has been sold to local property investors R W Estates, who plan a mixed retail and residential development of the site. The pub is a two storey property in Tiverton town centre, the property comprises trade areas on the ground floor and a 4 bedroom apartment on the first floor. To the rear of the pub are a range of outbuildings which also offer alternative use potential. Mike Phillips, of selling agents Stonesmith commented “Our marketing of the Cross Keys attracted several offers from local developers and operators which resulted in a sale being agreed within two weeks of instruction. The sale confirms that the market remains active for closed freehold pubs which offer alternative use potential.” Stonesmith sold The Cross Keys off a guide price of £175,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=121 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=121 New Edition To Exeter’s Vibrant Restaurant Scene Formerly trading as a seafood restaurant and cocktail bar, The Blue Fish Brasserie in Queen Street, Exeter, has been bought by experienced local operators as a grill and chophouse. The new owners Melissa and Garth Pearse bought the leasehold property through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Their new business venture, Exeter Sausage and Grill and 44 Below is the latest edition to Exeter’s vibrant restaurant scene. Specialising in locally sourced meat and sausages, local butcher Chris Horne makes the restaurants brand named sausages on the property. All ingredients are sourced locally by chef Brian Phillips and meat and dairy products are all free range and offer more than sausages. There is a grill menu full of modern British dishes including weekly seasonal specials and various vegetarian choices. As well as the refurbished restaurant area, downstairs is the newly created 44 Below, a hidden gem where you can relax with friends in a plush and swanky setting offering cocktails along with an extensive range of wines and champagnes by the glass. Garth and Melissa were attracted to the properties location, being on a very busy street in the centre of Exeter and close to both Exeter University and College. Their aim is to provide quality food and drinks aimed at business people, couples and students. The property comprises the three lower floors of a five storey end of terrace character Grade 2 Listed property which was converted to a restaurant in the late 1980s.The premises briefly comprise a ground floor restaurant which can seat 70 customers and a basement cocktail and lounge bar which can comfortably accommodate 100 people. There is also a separate entrance to 44 Below from street level. There is also a fully equipped Commercial Catering Kitchen and various ancillary and welfare facilities. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith comments “this sale highlights the continued demand for restaurant premises in Exeter and we wish Melissa, Garth and Brian the best of luck with their new venture” The property was sold for an undisclosed figure. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=134 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=134 Detached South Hams Village Freehouse,situated in a highly desirable part of South Hams in Devon, The Avon Inn at Avonwick has been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter to Gary and Karen Needs. Gary and Karen are experienced licensees and have moved to Avonwick from Porlock in Somerset in order to establish the Avon Inn as a popular village inn and destination pub known for its quality meals, using locally sourced produce, and for its well kept ales and ciders. They are planning to introduce more community events and to increase the use by the locals and Gary and Karen are keen to find out exactly what the villagers want from their pub and to make it the heart of village life again. They have set about refurbishing the property and restoring the bar in the lounge/restaurant to create more of an English pub atmosphere. Looking ahead they plan to create a new children’s play area in the grounds. They are also converting two of the bedrooms into en-suite letting rooms to offer B&B accommodation. A substantial detached property it dates back to approximately 1650 and backs on to the River Avon. The village lies on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Avon Inn is a substantial detached property which has retained many or its original features, including a feature stone fireplace and beamed ceilings. The trade accommodation offers a main bar with 20 covers, a restaurant area with 36 covers and a catering kitchen. The first and second floors provide private living accommodation with 4 bedrooms, a lounge and bathrooms. Externally the property stands in approx 1½ acres of grounds with a beer garden which leads down to the river bank and provides seating for 60+. The property includes a small orchard, a paddock, vegetable garden and extensive car parking. A highly sought after free of tie lease, Stonesmith sold the Avon Inn off an asking price of £35,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=133 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=133 Free of tie village coaching inn with 5 en-suite letting rooms Set in the quaint moorland village of Holne, the birth place of Charles Kingsley author of The Water Babies, The Church House Inn has been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Sold on behalf of Steve Ashworth and Justin Trevail, the new owners are Anthony and Helen Walker who are no strangers to the hospitality industry having previously sold a guest house in Paignton. As hands on owner operators, Anthony will run the front of house and Helen will take charge of the catering, ably assisted by a new team in the kitchen having created a new menu with a good selection of home cooked and sensibly priced pub style meals, using locally sourced produce. They plan to make the inn the centre of village life and also appeal to customers from the surrounding towns and villages and the many tourists and day trippers who visit Dartmoor. The Church House Inn benefits from having 5 en-suite letting rooms which Anthony and Helen are in the process of having graded by Visit Britain. This will be a valuable marketing tool along with their on web site www.churchhouseinndartmoor.co.uk and an entry in the 2010 good Pub Guide. The property dates from 1329 when stonemasons built it to house themselves while they built St Mary’s church alongside, as they needed comfortable accommodation, good food and fine ales. The Church house Inn is a historic Dartmoor coaching inn set in the centre of Holne which is approx 3 miles from the towns of Ashburton and Buckfast, with its famous monastery. There is direct access from the main A38 Exeter to Plymouth road. A substantial detached property it has been upgraded and refurbished over the past couple of years and is now presented to a high standard throughout, whilst the character and many of the original features have been retained. Deceptively spacious, the accommodation briefly provides a main bar with 32 covers, a lounge bar and restaurant for 30, a dining room with 30 covers and a well equipped catering kitchen. There are 5 en-suite letting rooms and 2/3 bedroomed owners accommodation. A highly sought after free of tie lease, Stonesmith sold the Church House Inn off an asking price of £95,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=132 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=132 Substantial bed and breakfast establishment sold to local learning disabilities group Trading as a commercial guest house, with 9 letting rooms, and situated in a prominent main road position, the Road Lodge in Exeter has recently been sold by licensed and leisure property specialists, Stonesmith of Exeter. The business has been bought by Exeter based care company Regents Park Ltd, who specialise in learning disability care. Regents Park Ltd provide support for children and young adults with a learning disability in the Exeter and East Devon area. They also offer support for families and carers and provide a diverse range of services. The company was started 10 years ago by Larrainne Thorne. Larrainne has a background in nursing and is a level 1 Registered Nurse specialising in learning disabilities. She has a loyal and longstanding workforce and over the years has built up an enviable reputation for the care they provide. The purchase of the Road Lodge is with a view to providing a bigger premises for specialist child care and to meet the needs of their expanding business. The property provides 3 floors of accommodation and dates back to approx 1850. It is highly visible and imposing dwelling on one of the main arterial routes into the city. The property is presently being converted to provide accommodation for 5 learning disability children with 24 hour care and one to one cover. The en-suite bedrooms are being decorated to make them personalised and child friendly and there will be a purposely equipped for soft play room, sensory room and vision impaired light room. Mike Phillips, of selling agents Stonesmith commented “Our high profile marketing of the Road Lodge attracted several offers from interested parties within eight weeks of the business coming to the market with Stonesmith, after it had previously been on the market with a national agent for some time with no interest.” A freehold property, Stonesmith sold the Road Lodge off a guide price of £525,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=129 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=129 Closed Village Pub To Be Refurbished and Reopened Situated in the centre of Chulmleigh in Mid Devon, The Globe Inn has recently been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Sold on behalf of Enterprise Inns, the business operated under temporary management for the last 9 months before it closed. The property has now been bought by local businessman Laurence Delamar. The property is presently being completely refurbished and refitted and is scheduled to reopen in the middle of the year as a quality freehouse with an upmarket restaurant and extensive letting accommodation. The property comprises a substantial two storey end of terrace building, originally two adjoining houses, one previously used as a shop. The other house was home to the Literary and Scientific Society in the late 19th Century. It then became a gentlemen’s club till 1970. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith said “Following our successful marketing campaign and a best and final offers process which attracted significant levels of interest, the sale of the freehold was completed in less than 4 weeks. We wish Mr Delamar every success with his new venture.” A freehold business, Stonesmith sold The Globe off of a guide price of £215,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=124 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=124 Experienced licensees buy Somerset freehouse. Situated in the pretty West Somerset village of Williton, on the edge of the Quantock Hills, The Masons Arms has recently been sold, report licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Acting for Barry Richards, the new owners are experienced licensees Tracy Twine and Malcolm Cridland who previously owned the Malt Shovel Inn at Cannington, Nr Bridgwater in Somerset. Tracy and Malcolm plan to re-establish The Masons Arms as a traditional character country inn and destination public house with quality catering and upmarket accommodation. They have already introduced a new menu offering traditional dishes, vegetarian meals, fresh fish and daily specials. Tracy and Malcolm are keen to welcome the local community to the Masons Arms and will be hosting a weekly league quiz night and in the summer months will be continuing with the boules teams. They also hope to capitalise on the busy passing trade and tourists visiting the nearby Somerset Coast. A grade II Listed 16th Century thatched property The Masons Arms retains much of its original charm and character and the deceptively spacious property briefly provides a main bar with 24 covers, a restaurant with approx 26 covers, a further 26 cover dining room and a well equipped catering kitchen. There are also 5 en-suite letting rooms. Outside the property benefits from a customer car park with approx 20 spaces and 3 lawned areas with seating for 40 plus. Stonesmith sold the freehold of the Masons Arms for an undisclosed figure off an asking price of £595,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=125 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=125 NEW OWNERS SEE POTENTIAL IN CLOSED PUB. Having fallen in love with the property and seeing the potential, Gary and Michelle Mackender have recently taken over The Royal Oak at Dolton. A leasehold pub, it had been closed for a short while but previously operated as a popular traditional village inn with a strong local and B&B trade. Gary and Michelle are keen to re-establish the pub and to welcome back the local and surrounding custom. They have been busy refreshing and refurbishing the trade areas including new carpets and reupholstered furniture. They have sympathetically carried out the improvements whilst retaining the character and features of the property, which dates back to 17th Century. One of the areas Gary and Michele are eager to develop is the food. They have taken on local award winning chef Karl Partrigdge who has recently won a catering competition and a trip to Switzerland. Along with Karl, they have introduced a new hearty traditional evening menu with Karl producing a selection of chefs specials. All of the food is home cooked and they are proud to say they do not use a microwave to heat the meals. As the warmer months arrive they will be extending the catering to also offer a lunchtime menu. Looking ahead to the future Gary and Michelle are refurbishing the 4/5 letting rooms, which have always proved popular with fishermen using the nearby Stafford Moor Fisheries. They are also redecorating the outside and landscaping the rear trade garden to provide a traditional country garden atmosphere, along with enhancing the front of the property and the trade areas to highlight the property. The inn currently has a skittles team but Gary and Michelle are looking to expand the sports team including skittles, pool and mens and ladies darts teams. They are making good use of the function room which is already booked with private functions and in the future they are looking at charity events and monthly craft trade classes. The Royal Oak is a substantial property set in the centre of Dolton among the rolling Devon countryside. A Grade II Listed property it has various modern additions and provides substantial trade, private and letting accommodation. The trade areas provide a main bar, snug and function room providing 70 plus covers, as well as a pool room and well equipped catering kitchen. The first floor provides private and letting accommodation with 4/5 letting rooms (one en-suite), a shower room and bathroom. The private accommodation offers 4 bedrooms, a bathroom, a lounge and domestic kitchen. Outside there are various stores, a front forecourt, rear trade garden and parking for 4/5 vehicles. Stonesmith agreed the sale on a new 15 year lease off an asking price of £28,500. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=123 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=123 Popular Exmouth Pub, Sold To Locals. Situated in a prominent position on the edge of Exmouth’s town centre, The Park public house has recently been sold to sister and brother team, Maura Edworthy and Kevin Sullivan. They bought the business through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter who acted for the owners Gill and David Freeman. Having always wanted to own a pub, The Park represented the perfect opportunity for them as they were locals and already knew the business. They have already introduced a new menu emphasising quality traditional home cooked pub food with a daily specials board and separate children’s menu. The Park has a strong local following and has a good reputation for live music events on Friday nights, which will continue. They are also supporting the pubs 5 darts teams, golf society and Tuesday quiz nights. For the future they are considering various events including karaoke, which they hope to start soon. In the coming months, Maura and Kevin plan to redecorate the property both internally and externally and they have plans to further enhance the trade gardens. A substantial detached property, The Park occupies a prominent corner site with extensive parking to the front and side. The property comprises an open plan main bar with seating for 60 customers, a restaurant area with a 30 covers and a catering kitchen. The first floor provides 2 self contained flats, one 3 bedroom and one 1 bedroom. Outside there is a rear courtyard with seating for 32 and a lawned trade garden and patio area with seating for 50. The property also includes a double garage/barn and a range of outbuildings. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith said “The Park is a well known landmark pub in this popular coastal town. Maura and Kevin will be taking a hands on approach to running the business and we wish them every success with their new venture”. A leasehold business Stonesmith sold The Park off an asking price of £75,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=122 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=122 Traditional town centre pub sold to local businessman Having previously traded as a traditional town centre pub, The North Country Inn in Barnstaple has recently been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter on behalf of Enterprise Inns plc. The property has been bought by experienced restauranteur and businessman James Li of Fu-Tze Ltd who is well known in the North Devon area as he owns and operates the Fullam Restaurant in Barnstaple and the Tiandi Restaurant in Bude. James plans to lovingly restore the Grade II Listed building whilst conserving and highlight many of the original features. This work will take around 6 months to a year to complete and the property will then re-open with lounge and cocktail bars and a restaurant, all with an Asian influence. It will have a modern and contemporary design with a mix of character features. The North Country Inn is situated in the centre of Barnstaple close to the Green Lanes shopping Centre and various local and national businesses. The property dates from 18th Century and briefly comprises open plan trade areas on the ground floor, a first floor restaurant and dining area and living accommodation on the upper floors. Outside there is an enclosed courtyard to the rear. Mike Phillips of Stonesmith who handled the sale commented “This sale demonstrates that there is still a strong appetite from purchasers who wish to acquire suitable properties in the licensed sector. Our high profile marketing campaign generated significant interest for this high profile town centre opportunity.” A freehold property Stonesmith sold The North Country Inn off an asking price of £165,000 plus VAT. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=116 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=116 Exceptional East Devon pub/restaurant sold to expanding regional pub company Licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter, have sold one of East Devon’s leading pub/restaurants, The Puffing Billy at Exton near Exeter, to expanding privately owned pub company Hart Inns Ltd. The Puffing Billy is an impressive detached pub/restaurant which has been significantly extended and refurbished to an exceptionally high standard over the past few years with a stylish, spacious and contemporary theme throughout. The high quality property boasts a newly created lounge bar with 20 covers, an 85 cover restaurant, a state of the art catering kitchen with back up facilities and a spacious 3 bedroom apartment. Externally there is a lawned trade garden and a sitting out area to the front, providing al fresco seating for approximately 90 customers, and an off road customer car park for approximately 40 vehicles. Hart Inns is headed up by Andrew Younger and Gary Tubb, both of whom are experienced operators who have extensive experience in the pub, brewing and hospitality sector, along with a background of marketing and publishing. The Puffing Billy is the second high profile acquisition by Hart Inns, following their purchase of the White Hart Hotel in Moretonhampstead from renowned entrepreneur Peter de Savary last year (www.whitehartdartmoor.co.uk) Andrew Younger commented “we are delighted to have secured the purchase of the Puffing Billy which is an excellent business with an extremely strong reputation. The aim is to continue with the existing style and quality, to build on the strength of the present business and excellent staff team, who are committed to providing outstanding service. Being hands on operators, Gary and his wife Graciela are running the restaurant and have been overwhelmed by the welcome they have already received from the locals. “We are committed to championing local suppliers for many of our delicious ingredients and we pride ourselves on fresh seafish from the Exe region and prime Dartmoor meats.” Looking ahead to the future Andrew said “we will be looking to create four high quality en-suite letting rooms in order to offer guest accommodation and we are looking forward to welcoming a new influx of customers with the impending opening of the next section of the Exe Estuary cycle and walking trail. Our new website is being developed at the moment and will provide details of our menus and Christmas offerings. (www.thepuffingbilly.co.uk) Mike Phillips, Director of selling agents Stonesmith of Exeter said “we were delighted to be instructed to sell the Puffing Billy on behalf of Robert and Tina Palace. We immediately introduced it to Hart Inns and as a result have been able to assist them with their exciting plans to increase their portfolio of high quality businesses in the South West. The Puffing Billy was sold off an undisclosed asking price. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=109 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=109 A Four Star Guest House In Brixham, South Devon, Bought For Change Of Lifestyle. Looking for a change of lifestyle, Pam Jones and Malcolm Trinder from Oxfordshire fell in love with Brixham in South Devon and have purchased a high quality guest house. The Trefoil Guest House has been sold by licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter, on behalf of David and Hannah Harmer. Impressed with the spacious and modern accommodation combined with the well established business levels, Pam and Malcolm plan to continue to offer bed and breakfast accommodation but may offer evening meals in the future. They also plan to build upon the excellent standards and refurbish the letting bedrooms in keeping with the contemporary modern theme throughout. Trefoil already has a web site www.trefoilguesthouse.co.uk and has been awarded 4 stars by Visit Britain which reflects the quality and standards of the guest house. Trefoil is a 3 storey property set in a prominent trading position on New Road close to the town and harbour. The property briefly provides a ground floor dining room, lounge, kitchen and private owner’s accommodation, with a lounge, bathroom, 2 bedrooms and an office. The letting accommodation is spread out over the upper floors and provides 6 en-suite bedrooms. Externally to the front of Trefoil there is off road parking and to the rear there is a private walled and terraced garden with a patio and decked areas. Mike Phillips, of Stonesmith who handled the sale, commented “Despite some of the toughest market conditions experienced in many years, the sale of the Trefoil Guest House demonstrates that high quality guest houses with established levels of trade are selling, if priced correctly. We wish Pam and Malcolm every success with their new venture” Stonesmith sold Trefoil off an asking price of £389,950 for the freehold interest. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=106 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=106 Traditional Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria Situated close to the centre of Topsham, a prosperous East Devon town beside the River Exe, Marcello’s restaurant has recently changed hands. Sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter, for Gabriel Ghiglia and family, the new owners are Karine Chapart and Onur Egitim. Karine and Onur are experienced in the restaurant trade and were attracted to Marcello’s as they felt it was a good size for a first business venture as owners. They have also has experience specifically in the Italian restaurant trade and were looking for an established Italian restaurant with a good reputation. At present Karine and Onur are looking to expand on the restaurants reputation. The food will still be traditional Italian but they have already introduced a new menu and specials board. They are also in the process of designing a new web site and refitting the customer welfare facilities. The main restaurant is downstairs with an overspill seating area upstairs, though this has not been used for a while. Karine and Onur have a few plans for upstairs and are looking to open it up and refurbish with new seating etc. As a restaurant/seating area this would give them and extra 20 plus covers. Marcello’s is a Grade II Listed building set in Topsham’s conservation area. The property comprises a ground floor restaurant with34 covers and a catering kitchen. Upstairs is an open plan room, previously used as an overspill restaurant area, and customer welfare facilities. A privately leased business Stonesmith sold Marcello’s off an asking price of £65,000. Stonesmith can be contacted on 01392 201262 or www.stonesmith.co.uk for further information on selling or buying licensed and leisure businesses. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=101 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=101 Imposing detached character Somerset village inn sold Having been sympathetically converted and modernised over the years, the 17th century Crossways Inn at West Huntspill in Somerset has recently been sold. Previously owned by Nigel Dorothy, the business was sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter to David Dean whose son Steve Dean and son-in law Shane Wallace will be fully managing. The Crossways Inn has a strong all year round trade and is a popular destination, food led, inn with a trade split of 51% food sales and 49% wet sales. Steve and Shane are going to build on the pubs reputation and are planning to expand the catering. Along with the retained chefs they are developing a new menu which will consist of traditional pub grub with an enhanced specials board. Steve and Shane will be extending the availability of food providing it all day every day. To complement the food there will be a new selection of wines and the web site will be updated to promote the pub. To make all of the changes to the catering side of the business the kitchens will be closed for approx 10 weeks for a complete refurbishment and refit. At the same time new toilets will be built and it is hoped all of the work will be finished by mid November and any works done will be in keeping with the character of the property. The pub has a good local following and Steve and Shane are keen to find out what the regulars want from their local. Already the locals organise Jazz nights which they are keen to encourage, along with establishing occasional folk evenings. Another area they are looking to develop is the sports teams. They would like to increase the skittles teams and to introduce pool teams. Looking ahead to the future Steve and Shane are hoping to develop the outside trade areas by landscaping the gardens and erecting a children’s play area. Previously the pub provided accommodation but this is now converted back into private living accommodation. The Crossways Inn is an imposing detached village pub situated in a prominent trading position on the busy A38 between Highbridge/Burnham on sea and Bridgwater. It is easily found from the M5 at junction 22 &23 and is set on the edge of the Somerset Levels at the foot of the Mendip Hills in an area popular with tourists. A substantial property, it has been modernised and upgraded over the years but the character of the property has been kept intact. The property has also retained many of its original features including open fireplaces, heavily beamed ceilings and exposed brickwork. The accommodation briefly provides an open plan bar with 50 covers, a separate restaurant with 28 covers and a function room/skittle alley. Upstairs there are 6 bedrooms (4 en-suite) a lounge, bathroom and office. Outside to the front of the property there is a patrons car park with spaces for 60 plus vehicles and a trade area with 24 covers. To the rear there is an enclosed beer garden and patio area with seating for 30 plus customers. A freehold business, Stonesmith sold the Crossways Inn off an asking price of £650,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=99 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=99 Having been run under management for a number of years, The Full Quart at Hewish, Nr Weston-super-Mare has recently been sold on a new 15 year lease. Owned by Heavitree Brewery the pub was one of their managed houses which they are in the process of phasing out. The business has been bought by Lee and Helen Thorn, trading as HLT Hospitality, who were attracted by the pubs potential and large catchment area, report licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter who were joint agents with Bettesworths of Torquay. Lee and Helen have many years experience in the hospitality industry having previously specialised in the restaurant trade. They are keen to build on the formerly well established food sales by introducing a new menu using quality fresh ingredients. The food will be freshly cooked and the menu will also offer promotion meals, on Tuesdays its curry club night, on Thursdays its grill night and on Sundays there’s a popular carvery. A substantial and imposing property it benefits from extensive trade gardens which are suitable for a number of large functions. Lee and Helen are keen to promote and expand these facilities for charity events, sports club functions, school events, weddings etc. Whilst they do not have their own web site, their details can be viewed through Eat out Somerset. Lee and Helen also have plans to redecorate the trade areas and to restore some of the traditional character, such as reinstating the timber beams. They want to enhance some of The Full Quarts features to provide a warm, friendly and welcoming atmosphere. They are also planning to brighten up the outside with hanging baskets etc. and to also make it a family friendly pub where dogs are also welcome, The Full Quart possesses a highly visible roadside position on the main A370 Bristol to Weston–Super–Mare road. It is also just 2 miles from the M5 at junction 21. A popular food led operation it has a wide catchment area and Lee and Helen identified that there was a genuine potential for increasing the trade. The Full Quart sits on a large plot extending to over 2 acres. Over the past 40 year the property has been extended and improved, it now briefly provides a main bar with 20 covers, lounge bar with 20 covers, a restaurant with 60 covers including a carvery area for 26, a family room with 8 seats, a reception bar with 12 covers and a raises dining area for a further 10. The property also provides a fully fitted commercial kitchen, separate prep room, office and cellar. The owner’s accommodation provides 2 double bedrooms, a kitchen/breakfast room, lounge/diner and a bathroom. There is also a separate flat with a bedroom, lounge and bathroom. Externally there are substantial trading areas with 2 patios providing covers of up to 280, a large children’s play area with a mini assault course, a lawned trade garden with 64 covers, a large rear lawn area, a private garden, parking for 80 vehicles plus a hard standing area for a further 4/5 vehicles and a garage. Stonesmith and Bettesworths sold The Full Quart off an asking price of £70,000 with a new 15 year lease. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=89 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=89 Situated in the popular East Devon village of Whimple, the owners of The Thirsty Farmer have sold off some of its spare land for development. Consisting of a single building plot with detailed planning for a detached house, it has been bought by a local individual who intends to build a house for his occupation. The site extends to approximately 0.20acres and is situated to the side of the Thirsty Farmer pub/restaurant and was formerly part of its trade garden. The planning gives permission for a detached two storey, 4 bedroomed house with a double garage, gardens and a driveway with a turning area. The sale was completed by property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter who also advised the owners Enterprise Inns Plc on the feasibility, various options, contract terms etc. The site was sold off an asking price of £120,000. This is one of a number of development projects currently being handled by Stonesmith, others include a new 2 acre recycling facility at Greendale Business Park, Nr Exeter; a new British Heart Foundation shop in Queen Street, Newton Abbot and a 34 unit residential scheme in Bideford, North Devon. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=87 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=87 A renowned village pub will be brought back from closure. Tucked away in the village of Stokenham, Nr Kingsbridge The Tradesmans Arms is being refitted and refurbished, having been bought by one of the local villagers. Sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter, as a closed business, the new owner is hoping to reopen the pub on 20th July. At present the builders are sympathetically renovating the property, within the regulations of a Grade II Listed building. The kitchen has been totally refurbished and bought up to current health and hygiene standards, the bar area has been damp proofed and the slate roof extension has been replaced. New heating has also been installed throughout and the property and it is being totally recarpeted and redecorated. The new tenants are Cathy and Mike Saunders who will be running the pub. Along with the new chef they will be producing a fresh daily menu and looking to cater to both the local and surrounding villagers and, especially in the summer months, tourists. The Tradesmans is a classic “roses round the door “freehouse which in the past has had a strong local following and established food trade, it was also featured in Egon Ronay’s Good food Guide. The new tenants hope to re-establish this reputation and to open the pub up to the villagers. While it is still early days there is a possibility that The Tradesmans will run a euchre team. The Tradesmans is situated in the South Hams village of Stokenham, close to Slapton Sands which was made famous by the Americans practicing their D-Day landings there. Steeped in history the property dates back to the 14th Century, It is partially thatched and has retained many of its original features, such as exposed beamed ceilings and large inglenook fireplace. It briefly provides a main bar, with steps up to a dining area which has 12 covers, and a separate dining room with 24 covers. Back up facilities include the newly fitted catering kitchen, a cellar and various stores. The first floor provides private accommodation and has 3 double bedrooms (two with en-suite showers) a bathroom, kitchen and a lounge. Outside there is a landscaped trade garden, with views over the village green, a well established private garden and parking for 14 cars, although a free car park and off road parking is available nearby. Stonesmith sold the freehold business off an asking price of £450,000 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=83 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=83 Popular food led pub bought by experienced licensee Known locally as the Ebby, The Ebrington Arms at Knowle, Nr Braunton in North Devon has recently been sold. Named after the Earl of Ebrington, once a Member of Parliament for Barnstaple, the business was sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter on behalf of Mike and Jacqui Peacock. The new owner is Lee Slade an experienced bar manager from Barnstaple. Lee has had seven years working as a bar manager but this is the first time he has run his own pub. Lee is supported by his mum Denise and commented “I decided to take on the challenge of owning my own pub and I am looking forward to making The Ebrington Arms an asset to the area. I want to keep it as a community and family orientated pub with good quality but affordable food and beer”. Joining Lee is Shaun Tucker who is a qualified chef and who will help with the catering. Lee said “this will be a big challenge for me but I am looking forward to meeting the locals, making new friends and being part of the community. I also have a really enthusiastic team of welcoming and friendly staff and the pub is for all ages to enjoy. Whilst the pub has a great trade in the summer months I would like to introduce more skittles, darts and pool teams to keep it thriving throughout the winter”. The Ebrington Arms is an attractive 18th Century village inn situated a mile from the large sandy dunes and popular beaches at Braunton and benefits from a busy passing trade. A deceptively spacious property, over the past 2 years is has been upgraded and new catering kitchens put in. The trade areas provide a snug bar for 20, lounge bar for 40, 30 cover restaurant and a family/games room for a further 30. The first floor provides private owners accommodation with 3 double bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen/breakfast room and a self contained 1 bedroomed flat. Externally the property has an impressive trade decked area to the front with picnic style benches and tables providing seating for approx 52. To the side there is a private garden and to the rear parking for 30 cars. Mike Phillips at Stonesmith commented that Lee and his mum viewed the Ebrington Arms within two weeks of it coming on to the market with Stonesmith and within 8 weeks of their offer being accepted the sale was completed. A leasehold business Stonesmith sold The Ebrington off an asking price of £50,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=80 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=80 Nestling on Exeter’s historic quay and beside the Devon Wildlife Trust’s visitors centre is The Bishop Blaize. A detached public house with substantial accommodation it has recently been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Previously run, for the past 5 plus years, by Hannah Birks, the new owners are Ed Borthen and David & Nicola Chadwick. All three of them are highly experienced within the pub and hospitality trade but this is their first venture as licensees. Their aim is to make The Bishop Blaize a friendly local inn with families fully welcome. They are presently looking at introducing food and are in the process of devising a snack menu, with the food made fresh and in house. To start with this will be available lunchtimes and weekends. In addition, throughout the summer months occasional b-b-q’s will be available. One of the other areas they are expanding is the entertainment. This will be increased with monthly live music events, starting on 13th June with the group the 3 Amoebas. They have also set up a web site and up to date information and entertainment etc. can be viewed on www.bishopblaize.co.uk The pub presently has a darts and Sunday league football team but they are looking for players to make up a pool team. On top of this Ed, David and Nicola have invested in a full sky sports package for live sporting events. Whilst they have no immediate plans for refurbishing the interior they have embarked on a major plan to totally refurbish and redesign the trade patio/garden. They have re paved it and are adding further seating, a new feature pond and increased the plants etc. This will then give then 50 covers outside. A substantial 2/3 storey property it is situated in an area of the quay that has been redeveloped over the past few years and provides a mix of residential, commercial, retail and tourist use. The property comprises a ground floor open plan trade area with a mix of seating and standing areas and a pool area with seating for approx 12. The first floor provides a commercial kitchen and private accommodation, which offers a living room, utility room, bathroom and 4 bedrooms. The second floor is unused but could provide additional accommodation. Outside to the rear is the trade patio/garden. A leasehold business, Stonesmith sold The Bishop Blaize for an undisclosed amount. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=77 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=77 Budes only nightclub sold Previously trading as Kazbar Nightclub and situated in the surfing Mecca of Bude in North Cornwall, the club has recently reopened as Rogue. Since September 2007 Kazbar has been the only nightclub in the town, as the other one was sold for redevelopment. It has now been bought by the well known and experienced Perry family who trade as Bude Nightlife Ltd and also own various licensed and catering establishments including The Inn On The Green and the Beach Cafe at Crookelets Beach. The sale was handled by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter on behalf of a local businessman, who formerly owned Kazbar for 5 years, latterly running it under management. Kazbar was recently closed for 2 months and been completely redesigned. It has now reopened as Rogue Nightclub, with the inspiration for the name coming from an album made by a family friend, Big Al Hodge. The revamped club has a new sound system, lighting and striking decor. Rogue will be trading 3 nights a week in the winter and 5 nights in the summer and will include live music nights, guest DJ’s and a whole range of music to meet all tastes. A lock-up ground floor unit, the business is situated in the heart of Bude on the main road into the town centre. Internally there is a central dance floor, bar servery, DJ platform, seating and customer welfare facilities along with a beer cellar and wash and storage areas. Externally there is a walkway leading to the clubs entrance. The nightclub is a privately leased business on a 15 year lease. Stonesmith sold Kazbar off an asking price of £295,000 with a rent of £22,000 pa. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=76 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=76 A brand new cafe has recently opened within the Haldon Forest Park at Kennford, Nr Exeter in Devon. Known as The Ridge it will be open daily and serve a range of local, organic and fair-trade food and drink. The Cafe was offered by ways of a formal tender by commercial and licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter on behalf of Robert Harris the Area Land Agent for the Forestry Commission. They were looking for suitable new owners to fit in with the Forestry Commissions ethos and to work with them to make Haldon Forest Park’s cafe a successful and vibrant business. The tender was successfully won by sisters Nicola and Lisa Jameson and Nicola says: “We are delighted to be open for business and hope that our customers like what they see. We have worked closely with the Forestry Commission on the branding for the café, which we think is fantastic. We are here for all visitors to Haldon whether they are looking for a quick coffee and snack or a full meal.” Her sister Lisa adds: “We hope that people enjoy visiting The Ridge and are confident that the menu and atmosphere will suit people of all ages. We want people to be able to relax and enjoy tasty food and drinks on our menu and enjoy the beautiful setting of the forest.” The development of the café has been made possible thanks to funding from Devon County Council and Devon Renaissance. Money from both is also being used to develop a new cycling trail at Haldon, which will further enhance the range of trails open to the public. The erection of the cafe was by local construction firm Michael Thorne who carried out all of the building works, providing a brand new cafe with space for approx 40 covers, a new kitchen and external seating deck, with the potential for a further 50 + covers. Stonesmith commented that “they were delighted with the response which this unique opportunity generated, which included many experience local operators. This is further evidence that confidence is starting to return to the market, especially for the right opportunity”. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=71 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=71 Traditional “olde worlde” tea rooms in prime city location. Set within a Grade II Listed property, dating back to approx 1530, and fronting on to Exeter’s Cathedral Green, Hansons restaurant and tea rooms has been sold to Ben Mangan one of the founders of the Boston Tea Party chain. Hansons was sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter on behalf of Andy Goodchild. Ben is a highly experienced caterer and plans to re-establish Hansons as an old fashioned English tearooms and coffee shop which will provide an extensive menu and be licensed to sell alcohol. The business will close until 6th of May for total internal refurbishment and decoration and will reopen as “Tea On The Green”. It will offer fully waited table service with a new espresso bar for take out refreshments. The restaurant will be further enhanced by the installation of state of the art catering equipment. He plans to enhance the character of the property and to open up, as a feature, the old bread oven which dates back to 1530. The restaurant will trade from 8am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and Sunday trading from 9am to 5pm will be introduced. The restaurant will be able to seat 70 customers including alfresco seating to the front, directly overlooking Exeter Cathedral. Ben has secured the services of Fiona Were, who worked with him at the Boston Tea Party. Originally from New Zealand Fiona has an accredited career in catering including working as a training and development chef for Fifteen Cornwall in its first year. Fiona has created a new menu, written new recipes and is currently training the staff ready for the re-opening. Wherever possible all of the produce will be sourced locally and will be free range and organic. The tea and coffee is being supplied by D J Miles of Porlock and includes an extensive range of teas, notably Jasmine Burst which looks like a flower opening up in the cup. Tea on the Green will also be a “no tea bag zone” and as well as the food and non alcoholic beverages being locally sourced, there will also be a selection of beers from the Westcountry. “Having looked at the competition in Exeter, Ben identified a gap in the market for an old fashioned style tea rooms and coffee shop and is delighted with the purchase of Hansons, especially because of its high profile city centre trading position” reports Mike Phillips of Stonesmith. The leasehold of Hansons was sold by Stonesmith off an asking price of £95,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=61 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=61 Sold to the first viewer! The Rose and Crown at Sandford, Nr Crediton has been bought by Arthur & Jeanette Newton and Gillian Conibear, local business people who have connections with the village. Licensed property specialists Stonesmith, sold the freehold interest in The Rose & Crown on behalf of Basil and Mary Nunn and their daughter Sarah. A charming and deceptively spacious Mid Devon village freehouse, originally dating back to16th Century, it was rebuilt in 1920 after a devastating fire. Over the years it has been sympathetically upgraded but retains much of the original character. The Rose and Crown is a traditional Country village inn and destination public house. It has a strong all year round trade and is supported not only by the locals but also draws custom from the nearby towns and villages. The pub also sponsors a local football team and the skittle alley/function room is popular for private parties and meetings etc. Sandford is a sought after village in a semi-rural position, 2 miles from the market town of Crediton and 9 miles from the City of Exeter. It retains the village community feeling and offers a good range of local amenities. The property briefly comprises a character main bar with a games area and covers for 30, a separate restaurant with 24 covers, a well equipped catering kitchen and spacious 4 bedroomed private accommodation. Outside there are lawned gardens, off road parking, a purpose built skittle alley/function suite and various outbuildings. The freehold business was sold by Stonesmith off an asking price of £415,000. Mike Phillips of agents Stonesmith commented “despite the tough market conditions, good quality freehold opportunities in village locations continue to generate enquiries” http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=37 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=37 Attracted by the location and friendly atmosphere Mathew and Laura Croxford have recently bought The Seven Stars at Kingsbridge in South Hams. Previously run by Sarah Blackburn the business was sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. With years of experience in the hospitality and business industry Laura and Mathew are bringing their knowledge to the Seven Stars. Laura has previously run a number of gastro pubs and has also successfully run an Egon Ronay accredited establishment. With this background they feel they have the confidence and ability to make a success of running their new business. The pub has a good reputation for food but Mathew and Laura would like to develop this further and feel fortunate to have retained both of the existing chefs, who are working closely with them to update the menu. Food will be available all day with the menu offering bar snacks, chef’s specials and a lunchtime and evening choice all of which will be home made. The menu will change regularly and include seasonal produce, fresh fish dishes and locally sourced goods. There were many things that attracted the pair to the business including the variety of people it attracts, the location, the food, the potential it gave them and the friendly reception from the locals. All in all, it was the total package. In the near future they hope to also promote the function trade which is suitable for weddings, christenings and private parties, with seating for approximately 60. Their aim is to make the pub “the” place to socialise, drink and eat in Kingsbridge. Customers should soon be able to view the Seven Stars on their web site www.thesevenstars.com A large town centre pub, the property is situated in the middle of Kingsbridge, an affluent town in the popular South Hams area. It has been refurbished throughout, providing a contemporary theme. In addition to the main bar, which has 30 covers, there is a new conservatory with 36 covers, separate function room with 60 covers, 3 bed owners accommodation, extensive outside trade areas and parking for 15 cars. A leasehold business, Stonesmith sold the Seven Stars off an asking price of £90,000. Since the new year there has been an increased demand for all types of leasehold pubs throughout the Westcountry reports Mike Phillips of Stonesmith http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=36 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=36 One of Tiverton’s popular pubs has recently been sold. The Twyford Inn in Bampton Street has been bought by Philip and Karen Grattan who have 19 years of experience behind them in the hospitality trade. The business was sold on behalf of Tim and Lou Milnes by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Originally from Northern Ireland Philip, having spent a great deal of time working in London, has settled in The West Country with his wife Karen and their son Patrick. They moved to Tiverton to be close to Karen’s parents and found the town and people very welcoming and friendly. Philip and Karen were looking for an opportunity to branch out and run their own business as Philip has worked for many years for other people. He has worked in some of the best hotels and clubs in London and for some of the top names in the business, including Harvey Nichols, the Elysium Night Club (under the Café Royal) and for Jean-Christophe Novelli, before finally working more locally at Woodbury Park for Nigel Mansell. Philip said having worked in prominent venues and for bigger organisations he has developed many of the necessary skills for running his own business. Philip and Karen identified the Twyford as being a business with potential and they feel that Tiverton is such a great town. They have been warmly welcomed by the locals and are keen to provide a service to meet their customers needs. They are continuing with many of the activities at the pub including the pool team, live music and quiz nights but are looking for Crib and Darts players to start some new teams. The aim is to expand the business and to attract a wider range of customers. They have already introduced a new lunchtime and Sunday roast menu, with home made meals, and are in the process of introducing more real ales once the refurbishment of the bar is completed. The other notable change coming soon will be longer opening hours. Philip and Karen want to turn the Twyford into a traditional pub with a twist. One thing they won’t be changing are the popular features like the live music events on a Friday but they will be introducing various charity events for autism and Communication and Interaction Resources Base (CAIRB) in Castle Primary School, which is close to their hearts as their son is autistic. The pub is situated on the edge of the town and is a substantial end of terrace property with extensive private accommodation. The trade areas provide a main bar with two seating areas and a sports area with a pool table and gaming machines, providing total covers of approximately 45. Back up facilities include a well equipped catering kitchen and a lower ground cellar. The private accommodation has 6 bedrooms, a bathroom, lounge, kitchen, office and separate computer room. Outside there is a large paved trade area with approx 60 covers and a 2 storey storage barn. An Enterprise Inns lease, The Twyford was sold by Stonesmith off an asking price of £105,000 and is one of 4 leasehold businesses sold by Stonesmith in the last six weeks, including The Globe Inn Newtown, Exeter, The Globe Inn at Chagford and the Seven Stars in Kingsbridge. With further leasehold and 2 freehold pubs in solicitors hands, Stonesmith are pleased to report continued demand for licensed trade businesses. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=34 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=34 Local buys Local A dream has come true for a mother of four as she has taken on her first pub. Karen Harmer, who is from the area, has bought The Globe Inn at Newtown in Exeter. The business was sold on behalf of Angela Tate and Ian Emby, by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Karen is originally from Newtown, though she has been living in the Alphington area of Exeter for the past 25 years. With previous experience of working in pubs, she had a dream of one day owning her own business and The Globe fitted the bill. She said “the Globe has always had a good reputation for live music and I will certainly be keeping that going. I also intend to have disco’s and kareoke nights and after Christmas I plan to introduce bingo and quiz nights. The Globe has a very large function room which can cater for 120 people and I am hoping to promote this facility”. Well supported by the local community, Karen has been warmly welcomed as the new landlady. She is carrying on with the pubs pool team but presently looking for new players to start up darts and football teams. The Globe is predominantly a wet led pub with a trade split of 95% wet sales and 5% food sales. Karen is looking to increase the food sales and in the New Year she will be employing a chef and creating a new lunchtime and evening menu, consisting of traditional “pub grub” style food. Since taking over the pub Karen has started refurbishing some of the trade areas with plans to completely refurbish the private living accommodation as soon as she can. A three storey end of terrace, corner, property, The Globe is situated in a popular residential area of Exeter, ½ a mile from the city centre and new Princesshay shopping and leisure complex. The accommodation briefly provides at ground floor a main bar, lounge/snug bar and a pool room. The first floor has a music/function room/bar (with separate access from the side of the property), there is also private living accommodation consisting of a self contained flatlet with a lounge, bedroom and bathroom. The second floor provides further living accommodation with 3 bedrooms, a kitchen, lounge and a bathroom. Externally to the side of the property there is an enclosed trade patio and small car park. A leasehold interest of The Globe was sold by sole agents Stonesmith off an asking price of £45,000, having been on the market with another local agent for some time. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=33 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=33 Tempted by the picturesque and enchanting village of Chagford, Graham Flight and his partner Mary French have bought one of the local pubs. Having looked for a while for properties in the West Country, with a particular affection for Cornwall, they were overcome with the uniqueness of Chagford and are now the proud new owners of The Globe Inn. Previously owned by Anne and Brian Kirtley it was sold on their behalf by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter, who they originally bought the Inn from. Graham and Mary have been overwhelmed by the welcome they have had from the locals and are extremely keen to cater to their needs, as well as providing for customers from nearby villages and visiting tourists. The Globe is a traditional coaching inn with 7 letting rooms, which were totally refurbished a few years ago along with some of the trade areas. Graham and Mary have started to refresh and add their personal style to some of these areas but they have left the locals bar, as it already has a warm and homely atmosphere. The existing chef Sid has been retained and is working extremely hard to implement the new ideas and menu’s. The food is home cooked using locally sourced produce with a seasonally varied menu. Meals are available lunchtimes and evenings and along with the main menu there is a regularly changing specials board. Whilst this is a new venture for Graham and Mary, they both have experience within the hospitality trade. Whilst The Globe attracts a mixed group of clients they are keen to provide a variety of entertainment evenings to suite all, including Beatles and folk nights with plans for future events. They are also in the process of updating and improving their web site www.globeinnchagford.co.uk The Globe is a period Grade II Listed moorland coaching inn within the town of Chagford, which is in the Dartmoor National Park. The accommodation provides at ground floor the main trade areas, with a public and lounge bar. The first floor provides 5 quality en-suite letting rooms and the second floor, 2 further letting rooms and a 40 cover meeting/function room. To the rear of the property there is an enclosed trade patio with access to a separate 3 bedroomed owners cottage. A leasehold business, Stonesmith sold The Globe Inn off an asking price of £90,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=30 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=30 Green King has recently disposed of one of their well known Hotels, The Dartmoor Lodge. Situated at Ashburton, Devon it is close to the Dartmoor National Park and provides en-suite accommodation, home cooked food, a good selection of real ales and function and conference facilities. The business was acquired by licensed property specialists Stonesmith in an “off market transaction” on behalf of retained clients Trevor and Di Crouchen. Trevor and Di are highly experienced operators and have moved to the area with their children. Previously they ran the Manor at North Perrot and before that were general managers at the Great Western Hotel in Exeter, both of which were sold by Stonesmith. Trevor and Di have already started to make their mark by bringing operations up to their high standards. Externally they are totally redecorating and will be constructing a new patio seating area. In the meantime they are improving the gardens and plan to landscape them next year. Internally they have redecorated the function and conference rooms, providing up to date facilities for private and business parties, meetings, weddings, christenings, etc along with full conference and exhibition services. With the web site www.dartmoorlodge.co.uk up and running, Trevor and Di hope to promote all of the facilities at the lodge including the bar, restaurant and letting accommodation. Whilst the business has a good level of repeat and hotel trade Trevor and Di are keen to re-establish some of the local and neighbouring trade. Trevor and Di have retained the hotels chef, who has 14 years experience at The Dartmoor Lodge. Having previously worked within the restrains of a pub company she is excited by the challenge of developing new menus. Already they have introduced traditional and seasonal English menus with fresh, home cooked food. They have sourced their produce locally including a local butcher whose meat is from a family farm close by. The day starts with breakfast from 7.30am and leads on to a lunchtime and evening menu, with snacks available throughout the afternoon. Whilst they have continued the traditional Sunday roast Trevor and Di will be re-introducing the popular Sunday carvery. They also plan to introduce wine evenings and themed nights and are already taking bookings for Christmas lunches and dinners. To complement the meals there is a new selection of fine wines to suit every pallet, but one of Trevor’s passions is Real Ales. Over the years he has been recognised for his high standard of Real Ales. He has accolades in the past from CAMRA and is already being supported by South Devon CAMRA for his present 4 Real Ales. The letting accommodation is all en-suite and in time, will be totally upgraded. Presently Trevor and Di are converting some of the letting rooms into private accommodation whilst still retaining some staff accommodation. They now have 22 rooms ranging from the usual singles, doubles and twins, to family and four poster rooms, enabling them to offer various packages to suit every need.. Stonesmith report “The sale of this freehold business was a confidential off market transaction, sold for a substantial undisclosed sum. This is one of several confidential sales concluded by us in the last couple of months and is further proof that the South West leisure market is not all doom and gloom”. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=28 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=28 Situated in the country village of Yeoford, Nr Crediton, The Mare and Foal Inn has recently been bought by experienced licensee Mr Trevor Sawtell who has moved to Devon from the Isle of Wight with his partner Jayne Kelly. The business was sold for the previous owners by Stonesmith of Exeter. Trevor and Jayne plan to restore the Mare and Foal into a traditional village pub which is well supported by the locals and visited by the neighbouring villagers and townsfolk. They are also looking to encourage local groups including field sports groups, who in the past have used the pub. With the locals in mind, Trevor and Jayne want to re-introduce skittles, pool and darts teams at the Mare and Foal and plan in the future to provide occasional entertainment. They are also keen to cater for private functions and small parties. One of the main focuses at present is the food. Trevor and Jayne have bought in experienced chef, Mark Segar, and introduced a new traditional pub menu. As well as this they are continuing to provide a takeaway menu, which is especially popular with the locals. They also hope to start work on improving the property including a new roof, and redecoration and refurbishment of the trade areas. The Mare and Foal Inn is a substantial detached property nestling in the Mid-Devon village of Yeoford, Nr Crediton. The accommodation is spread over 3 floors with the trade areas on the ground floor providing a bar with a snug, and a dining area with 40 covers, suitable for private functions. There is also a pool room and a skittles alley along with catering kitchens and back-up facilities. The first and second floors provide private accommodation with 5 bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen and bathrooms. Outside there are well maintained and beautiful landscaped trade gardens with seating for approximately 48. Trevor and Jayne are soon going to transform some of the garden into a children’s’ play area. The pub also has a large car park, 2 garages, lock-up stores and a barn. In the long term it’s hoped to convert the 2 garages into accommodation. A freehold business Stonesmith sold the Mare and Foal off an asking price of £520,000. http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=25 http://stonesmith.co.uk//news.php?n=25