The Forces Tavern Blackawton FOR SALE - 17th June 2010

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 £450,000 for the freehold business