Stonesmith - The Latest News from Stonesmith http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php Quality detached village inn, established in The Good Beer Guide With a strong all year round trade and a prominent roadside position The Dog and Donkey at Knowle, Budleigh Salterton, East Devon has an established local following which is boosted in the summer months. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. During the past 4 years the owners have built a reputation for well kept ales and quality home made food. They have firmly establishes the pub in The Good Beer Guide, introduced a lunchtime carvery and recently reinstated the skittle alley and now have 4 skittles teams. There is scope across all aspects of the business to boost the turnover, including increased trading hours, especially during the summer months. The carvery is still growing and the recent reinstatement of the skittle alley has already had an impact on the trade and profitability of the pub. The Dog and Donkey is a deceptively spacious detached 2 storey period property. It briefly provides a main bar with c.24 covers, a TV/games room with c.18 covers, a snug c.8 covers, a function room/skittle alley with c.64 covers and a catering kitchen. The first floor private accommodation offers 4 double bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen, bathroom and two balcony areas. Outside there is a car park for approx 10 cars along with various useful outbuildings, an enclosed trade terrace and lawned beer garden with a barbecue area for c.44. A leasehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £65,000 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=161 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=161 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=141 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=141 Licensed daytime cafe with owners accommodation Recently refurbished and trading as a licensed family daytime restaurant, Alley Cats Diner in Kingsbridge, South Devon, is for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The business has been operated by the present owners for the past 5 years and they trade it suit their family lifestyle. Over this time though, they have established a successful daytime trade and a reputation for good quality food. The owners have recently refurbished the property to a high level throughout and more recently they have introduced a new menu using locally sourced produce and creating home cooked fresh food to suit all tastes. Alley Cats has a good degree of repeat trade whilst attracting a high level of trade in the summer months from tourists as well as having established a good reputation with local accommodation businesses who recommend their guests to the restaurant. The restaurant is well presented and purposely equipped, offering the potential for new owners to operate a style of trade to suit their needs. The property is in a town centre trading position in the centre of Kingsbridge, an affluent Estuary town and holiday resort widely regarded for its leisure, yachting, water sport and marine activities. The premise briefly provides a modern and stylish 44 cover restaurant, a catering kitchen and various ancillary and welfare facilities. There is also a superior owner’s apartment with 2 double bedrooms a lounge, fully fitted kitchen/diner and a family shower room. Externally to the rear there is an enclosed lawned garden. The present owners confirm that there is the potential to increase the current trading levels by extending the opening hours, especially in the evening given the busy town centre trading position. Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £259,950, reduced from £279,950, for the freehold of Alley Cats Diner http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=146 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=146 Established and fully equipped brewery. Established as a brewery in 1998 and renamed in 2009, Gidley’s Brewery is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Gidley’s Brewery has built up a growing reputation and comprises a bespoke 4 barrel brewery plant with 3 quality recipes, it produces 30 casks a week, depending on demand, but is capable of producing up to 60 casks if required. Having previously won a number of CAMRA awards as pub landlords the owners have carried on their love of ales and have now established a strong customer base throughout the South West, supplying pubs, private parties and offering a home consumption “beer in a box”. At present the brewery operates 5 days a week from Monday to Friday, of which three days are full time, with one single working proprietor. The scope with the business is to build on the established trade and to improve the marketing and advertising as at present there is little or no marketing, advertising or telesales. Gidley’s Brewery occupies a purpose equipped industrial unit on the outskirts of Christow, in the Teign Valley, and within the Dartmoor National park. It briefly provides a ground floor sales area, cask conditioning room, 2 fermenting rooms, a copper room and a kitchen area. The first floor provides a mash area, 2 offices and storage facilities. Outside to the front there is a parking zone for 3-4 cars and to the side an enclosed yard that is used for cleaning and storage. The sale includes all the appropriate brewing equipment and a handover and training are also available, if necessary. A leasehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £39,950 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=160 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=160 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=159 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=158 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=158 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 £399,950 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=88 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=88 Boasting tremendous charm and character throughout, and located in the much sought after East Devon coastal town of Sidmouth, The Old Ship Inn is an impressive freehouse with origins dating back to 1350. The pub is centrally located and offers a warm and charming atmosphere within historic surroundings. A freehold business, presently run under management, it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter and offers tremendous scope for new owner/operators. The Old Ship is reputed to be the oldest freehouse in Sidmouth. It is Grade II Listed and presented to an exceptionally high standard throughout. Whilst it has been the subject of much sympathetic upgrading and improvement, it has retained many of its original features and “olde worlde” charm. Enjoying a strong local following, with an all year round trade, The Ship also benefits from the tourist trade especially during the International Folk Festival as well as the summer months. There is a broad mix of customers for which the managers organise regular entertainment in the form of quiz nights, themed food evenings and wine tastings. They have also established a reputation for their food and well kept real ales, with the trade split 45%/55% in favour of wet sales. The present vendors have owned The Old Ship Inn for the past 21 years and presently run it under full management with virtually no day to day involvement. Therefore there is plenty of potential for hands on owners to increase all aspects of the trade further, in particular by extending the opening hours to meet demand, especially in the summer months. The two storey terraced property is situated in the centre of Sidmouth in a pedestrianised zone close to the main shopping area and sea front. Sidmouth is an attractive and affluent Regency town which is world renowned for its folk festival. It has also risen in popularity since achieving the status of being part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. The town also benefits from being only 12 miles from the city of Exeter with access to the M5 and international airport. The property briefly comprises an open plan bar and adjoining dining area with 30 plus covers, a 42 cover upper deck restaurant, well equipped catering kitchen and spacious 2 bedroomed owners apartment. Due to the impending retirement of the owners Stonesmith are looking for offers off a substantially reduced asking price of £595,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=51 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=51 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 £495,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=56 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=56 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=97 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=97 Impressive and deceptively spacious guest house Situated in the heart of the market town of Tiverton, The Angel Guest House is a well established B& B establishment benefiting from good sized owners accommodation. The business is now for sale through licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Angel is run solely on a Bed and Breakfast basis, and by choice no evening meals are provided. The quality and standards throughout have resulted in good occupancy levels and repeat business, and due to it location in the town centre the guest house also benefits from passing trade. Being in a prime location the business attracts both the commercial and tourist trade, and with a lack of letting accommodation in Tiverton it is always in demand. The guest house also has its own web site www.angelguesthouse.co.uk which is linked to a number of specialist booking agents and local accommodation bureaus. A deceptively spacious three storey terraced property it dates back to 1700’s. While the property has undergone a comprehensive program of improvement many of the original Georgian features have been retained and the property is presented in good order throughout, along with quality furnishings and fittings. The accommodation provides 7 well appointed letting rooms (some en-suite) sleeping a maximum of 16 guests, a residents dining room, fully equipped kitchen and a utility/laundry room. The spacious owner’s accommodation provides 3 double bedrooms, a bathroom, lounge and dining room. The Angel Guest House has been run as a lifestyle business to fit in with family living and has been traded up to the VAT threshold. Therefore an opportunity exists to increase the trading levels by offering evening meals, Increasing the tariff and expanding the marketing and advertising. Altogether the Angel provides an excellent opportunity for first time buyers looking to enter the hospitality trade. Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £300,000 for the freehold business. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=119 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=119 Established and highly profitable cafe/coffee shop/sandwich bar Established in 2006 by the present owners, Cafe at 36 in Cowick Street Exeter as a cafe, coffee shop and sandwich bar it is now for sale through licensed, leisure and catering property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. Cafe at 36 is a quality catering operation which has built up an excellent reputation over the past 4 years. It has a strong and loyal customer base, from both locals and visitors, and is renown for its quality home made food, ambience and service. It offers a range of beverages, coffee shop snacks and sandwiches prepared fresh to order. Cafe at 36 also provides a popular take away service. The business is run by the present owners on a part time basis, due to other business commitments, and would be suitable for full time hands on owners with part time staff. The owners admit that there is the potential to develop all aspects of the trade by extending the daytime opening hours by offering a bistro menu in the evenings, providing sandwich delivery and outside catering services etc. The business would also benefit from a more dynamic advertising and marketing policy especially with online advertising and ordering. Cafe at 36 is situated in the heart of Cowick Street’s business and commercial quarter, on the western outskirts of the city, and has the advantage of a prominent trading position. A ground floor purposely fitted and equipped lock-up unit, it briefly comprises a customer dining area with approximately 50 covers, customer servery, catering kitchen, wash up room and customer welfare facilities. To the rear there is a small enclosed private service yard. A leasehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off a guide price of £79,950 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=157 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=157 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 £295,000 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=135 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=135 Detached country house hotel set in 36 acres in the heart of Dartmoor National Park with spectacular moorland views. Set in its own 36 acres and approached by a private lane, the Lydgate House Hotel is an exceptional property and business, which overlooks the East Dart River and valley on Dartmoor. It offers perfect peace and quiet and has direct access onto the moor. A Victorian property, with seven high quality en-suite letting rooms, it is now for sale through licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Lydgate House Hotel is a privately run country house hotel with a strong year round trade and an established reputation, which ensures excellent levels of repeat and word of mouth business. Set in a highly sought after location the owners run the business to suit their own family lifestyle and trade for around 11 months of the year. They presently offer bed and breakfast 7 nights a week and evening meals 5 nights. The quality of their service and accommodation has led to the hotel being selected by the Good Hotel Guide and it is featured in the Michelin Guide and Alistair Sawday’s Special Places To Stay. While the business has a healthy turnover there is still scope for growth. The owners admit that there may be a demand for meals 7 nights a week and the potential to re-establish the tea gardens, which were a great success for the previous owners. There is also an opportunity to open the restaurant to non residents for evening meals etc. A substantial detached property the hotel is set in an elevated position with spectacular views over Dartmoor National Park and the East Dart River. Built in the early 1900’s the property has been extensively refurbished and therefore beautifully presented and furnished to a high standard throughout. The property offers 7 individually styled en-suite letting rooms, a guest bar, conservatory dining room, fully equipped kitchen and separate owners accommodation with 3 bedrooms and a lounge. Standing in 36 acres, externally it provides woodland, pastureland, paddocks, formal terraced gardens, a decked area with an adjoining sun terrace and barbecue area, parking and 3 barns, for which two have planning for conversion into further owners accommodation, two luxury letting suites or conference facilities. As with the majority of business properties within Dartmoor National Park the Lydgate House Hotel is subject to the favourable terms of a Duchy of Cornwall lease, for which Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £535,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=156 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=156 Trading as a coffee shop and sandwich bar, and incorporating a quality delicatessens, 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 £45,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=155 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=155 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=154 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=153 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=84 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=144 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=144 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 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=152 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=152 Exeter city centre restaurant and cafe bar sold A closed high quality daytime cafe/bar and restaurant in Exeter city centre has been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. A leasehold lock-up property, Stonesmith completed the sale to Pasta Porto Ltd on behalf of the private landlord. The business is set to reopen in the near future offering a new concept in Mediterranean style food. Refurbished to a very high standard throughout in the last 2 years the premises are situated in a prime trading position fronting on to Fore Street in Exeter, close to the main shopping areas and a few minutes walk from Cathedral Green. Internally the premises are fully air-conditioned and briefly comprise a split level interior. There is a ground floor dining area with stairs leading to an atrium dining area which in turn leads through to an elegant restaurant. The property was also sold with a fully equipped commercial catering kitchen and various ancillary and welfare facilities. Mike Phillips of Stonesmith commented “The sale of Lily’s 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 the South West, demand remains strong from buyers.” Stonesmith sold Lily’s Restaurant on a new 21 year private free of tie lease off a guide price of £39,950. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=151 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=151 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=150 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=150 Detached village Inn 8 miles from Bath City centre Having owned and operated the Butchers Arms at Farmborough in Somerset for the past 5 years the owners have decided to sell the business. The business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Butchers Arms is a popular community pub which is well supported by the locals and surrounding villages. The pub is home to a crib team and 2 skittles teams (despite not having its own skittle alley) and on Sunday nights there is a weekly quiz night. The owners have over the past 5 years built up a excellent reputation for serving a good range of keg and cask ales and quality home cooked pub food, with a sales split of 60% wet sales and 40% food sales. The Butchers Arms is situated within the popular village of Farmborough, 8 miles west of the Spa City of Bath and 10 miles from the centre of Bristol. Farmborough is surrounded by attractive countryside and boasts excellent transport connections with road, rail and airport links close by. A substantial detached two storey property it is presented in good order throughout. The accommodation briefly provides a main bar with 24 covers, a lounge area with 20 covers and a commercial kitchen. The private quarters provides family sized accommodation with 4 bedrooms. Externally the property benefits from off road parking with approx 30 spaces along with a garage and lawned trade gardens with approx 20 covers. A leasehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers in the region of £24,950. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=138 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=138 One of the West Country’s well renowned dining pub/restaurants for sale The Highwayman’s Haunt at Chudleigh in Devon is a well regarded and busy destination pub and restaurant, with an enviable turnover. A Grade II Listed thatched property it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Highwayman’s Haunt has an enviable turnover but still offers new owners the opportunity to grow the business further. The present licensees have developed the business considerably during their ownership and attract custom from a wide catchment area, however hardly any advertising or marketing is undertaken, though they do have their own website www.thehighwaymanshaunt.com. Over the past 4 years they have invested substantially in the business and have carried out numerous projects to improve and refurbish the property to a high standard throughout. This has ensured excellent levels of repeat trade, word of mouth recommendations and an enviable reputation for high quality freshly prepared food, using the finest of local produce, resulting in a trade split of 80% to food sales and 20% to wet sales. The Highwayman’s Haunt is an impressive and attractive detached property which is believed to date back to around 1300, when it was originally a Devon longhouse. During the latter part of the 20th Century the property was substantially extended to provide additional trade areas and commercial kitchens. The property has though retained much of its original Olde Worlde charm and original features, including exposed stone work, beamed ceilings, panelled walls and inglenook fireplaces. The property is situated in a rural position on the fringes of the Dartmoor National Park and half a mile outside of the traditional Devon village of Chudleigh, which is adjacent to the A38 Devon Expressway and 8 miles from the Cathedral and regional City of Exeter. This high quality public house and restaurant briefly provides a lounge bar with 22 covers, sun lounge with 60 covers, a lower restaurant with 21 covers, a higher restaurant with 40 covers and a rear dining room with a further 24 covers. There is a commercial kitchen with extensive back-up facilities and spacious 4/5 bedroomed private accommodation. The property is set in approximately 4 acres of grounds and includes a paddock, formal gardens, private gardens, trade terraces with 114 covers, a vegetable garden and parking for 80 plus vehicles. “High turnover businesses of the calibre of the Highwayman’s Haunt rarely come on to the open market and we expect significant interest in this exceptionally profitable country inn” reports Mike Phillips of Stonesmith. A leasehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £195,000 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=149 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=149 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 £695,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=148 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=148 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=147 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=147 Well established town centre freehold, recognised in the Good Beer Guide A popular and well presented town centre pub, with letting rooms and an owners apartment, The Town Arms in South Molton, North Devon is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Town Arms is a well established freehouse which has a good reputation for well kept ales, resulting in a place in the highly acclaimed Good Beer Guide. The present owners have built up an enviable reputation over the past 8 years and have greatly improved and maintained the business and the property. The inn is a popular town centre wet led freehouse with a strong local following and year round trade, though it enjoys a slight uplift in the summer months from tourists. Whilst the inn is reputed for its beer there is a limited food selection, mainly consisting of sandwiches and rolls. Therefore, with a small amount of letting included, the trade split is 90% to wet sales and 5% each to food and accommodation. The Town Arms sponsors a local rugby team and is home to pool, darts and skittles teams. In addition the function room is a popular venue for a number of local groups including, a Vintage Car Club, CAMRA, Young Farmers etc. The property is situated in a prime trading position in the centre of South Molton, which is a thriving market town known as the Gateway to Exmoor. The area is renowned for its beautiful scenery and excellent sporting and recreational facilities. The North Devon coast is also within easy reach and offers sandy beaches and surfing. A deceptively spacious mid terraced three storey property, It has been sympathetically upgraded and improved over recent years and comprises a main bar with 36 covers, a back bar with a further 14 covers, a function/dining room with 30 covers and a well equipped catering kitchen. There are 4 en-suite letting rooms each with en-suite shower facilities on the first floor and on the second floor owner’s accommodation which comprises a lounge, double bedroom and bathroom. Externally there is a rear enclosed and covered courtyard with a smoking shelter and covers for 16 people and opposite a single storey purpose equipped skittle alley. There are also 2 private parking spaces. The Town Arms represents an excellent opportunity for new owners to purchase a well established public house with genuine potential to develop all aspects of the trade, especially the catering, by offering a more extensive menu, and the accommodation with advertising and marketing. Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £525,000 for the freehold business http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=145 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=145 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=143 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=143 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=139 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=139 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 £595,000 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=137 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=137 Grade II Listed wet led inn with spacious private accommodation A deceptively large character pub, The Appledore Inn in Bideford has been in the same hands for the past 6 years. Run by a husband and wife team it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The property is situated in the heart of the historic port of Bideford, which the Victorian novelist Charles Kingsley described as “the little white town which slopes upward from its broad river tide”. The Appledore Inn is a traditional town centre wet led community pub. It has a strong local following and all year round trade with some uplift in the summer months from the tourists. It hosts a regular meat draw and occasionally holds a quiz night. Whilst the pub is predominantly wet led the owners have introduced good value lunchtime bar snacks and a popular Sunday roast. The food is home made and the owners have established an excellent reputation for their cooking. Scope therefore exists to develop the catering with a more extensive menu and the introduction of evening meals. Dating back to the 15th century, the pub is deceptively large and full of character. Whilst the accommodation is to a good standard inside much of the character remains, in keeping with its Grade II Listing. Bideford is a thriving market town and working port with historic buildings and places of interest lying beside modern amenities and visitor attractions. The Appledore Inn is in the heart of the town centre and ideally situated to take advantage of local and tourist trade. The trade accommodation briefly provides a main bar with seating for 40 plus and includes a darts area, sofa seating, piano, T.V. and an internet access point. Back up facilities include a well equipped catering kitchen, store rooms, a beer cellar and customer welfare facilities. The first floor living accommodation provides 4 double bedrooms, a lounge, dining room, kitchen and bathroom. Outside to the rear there is an enclosed trade garden with a smoking shelter, customer seating and a storage shed. The Appledore Inn offers an excellent opportunity for purchasers looking for a well established and supported community pub with genuine potential. Due to the size of the private accommodation there may also be scope to convert some of the rooms into letting accommodation. A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £315,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=136 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=136 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=121 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=134 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=133 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=132 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=132 Recorded as the oldest public house in Devon, dating back to 12th Century Situated in the delightful rural village of Rackenford and surrounded by picturesque Devon countryside, The Stag Inn is a well known village hostelry and destination public house, which has recently grown its reputation for food. The freehold business is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Stag Inn is situated in the centre of Rackenford and is unopposed, being the only pub in the village. It is at the heart of village life and, as well as hosting skittles and darts teams, it is a locals local and popular for social events throughout the year. The stag also benefits from significant passing trade, especially in the summer months, and is well placed to attract custom from the surrounding area. The present owners have re established the food trade, split 60% food sales and 40 % wet sales, with an extended lunchtime menu and a comprehensive a la carte evening menu. As well as the quality of the food they have improved their reputation for well kept ales and provide two local guest ales from Exmoor Brewery. Their hard work and enthusiasm has put the business back on the map making it one of the more popular destination pubs in this part of the world. A substantial detached property, the stag Inn is a Grade II listed building with an “Olde Worlde” charm and character. As such it has flagstone flooring, beamed ceilings, inglenook fireplaces and Jacobean panelling. It is also one of Devon’s few surviving tunnel inns, so called because the entrance to the bar is via a tunnel passage into which drovers could heard their stock. The accommodation provides ground floor trade areas which include a main bar with 30 covers, a restaurant area with 30 covers, a private dining room with 12 covers, a skittle alley/function room for 80 and a commercial kitchen. The first floor private accommodation provides a spacious living area with 4 bedrooms, a lounge and a bathroom. Outside to the rear there is a decked trade patio leading to a lawned trade garden with far-reaching views over rolling Devon hills. There is also a patrons car park for 20 vehicles. A freehold business, Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £595,000 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=131 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=131 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 with 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”. A freehold business Stonesmith are looking for offers off an asking price of £450,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=130 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=130 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=129 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=124 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=125 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=123 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=122 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=122 First time buyers purchase village inn on the edge of Dartmoor Drawn to the picturesque location and warmth of the property, David and Anne Morgans have fully embraced their new way of life, in the attractive West Devon village of Bridestowe, having recently bought the White Hart Inn, the only pub in the village. Previously run by Darren and Laura Hemsley, for the last 3 years, David and Anne bought the business through licensed property specialists, Stonesmith of Exeter. The White Hart is a traditional country village inn and destination public house with masses of character and warmth. David and Anne are loving village life and have been warmly welcomed by the local community. They plan to continue running the business in the same manner as their predecessors, having retained the catering team. They have modified the menu to emphasise their use of fresh quality local produce and have kept the food offering to traditional pub dishes with good sized, affordable meals, available lunchtimes and evenings. They will continue to support the pubs darts team and are looking forward to welcoming back the village cricket team in the summer. The charity quiz will continue on the second Wednesday of the month, with the money collected going to the evening’s nominated charity. Situated in the centre of the village, the inn comprises a character main bar, a snug bar, a 34 cover restaurant and well equipped catering kitchen. The first floor owner’s accommodation provides 4 spacious bedrooms (2 which were previously used for letting). Outside to the front there is a lawned beer garden along with a private car park. Mike Phillips of selling agents Stonesmith said “The White Hart occupies a particularly scenic spot on the edge of Dartmoor National Park and David and Anne are wasting no time in promoting the business and getting involved in village life. They are aiming to refresh the restaurant and kitchen areas and are keen to reinstate the family en-suite letting bedroom to provide additional B&B accommodation”. Stonesmith have sold the freehold of The White Hart Inn for an undisclosed sum off an asking price of £545,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=120 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=120 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=116 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=109 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=106 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=101 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=99 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=99 RE-OPENING 7TH AUGUST 2009 Acting on the instruction of Enterprise Inns, licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter have sold the freehold of The Old Union Inn at Stibb Cross, Nr Torrington, North Devon. The previously closed pub has been bought by locals Nigel and Sue Harris, who are being ably assisted in the business by Nigels daughters Tracey and Beverley. They officially re-open on 7th August 2009. The Old Union Inn is the only pub in the village and Sue and Nigel are looking to bring it back into the heart of the community. They are keen to attract the locals, while also bringing in passing trade, as the pub is well positioned to capitalise on this throughout the year, more so in the summer months. Sue and Nigel are introducing a new bar snack menu with a full roast available on Sundays. New sports teams are going to be formed and they are looking for keen darts and pool players. They also hope, with the correct planning, to open a village shop within the property and have had tremendous support from the locals for this new service. A detached two storey character property with singe storey additions it is situated in the centre of the village on a sizeable corner plot. The trade accommodation is arranged on the ground floor with private living accommodation above. Nigel and Sue bought the pub as a closed unit and have totally refurbished it internally and externally, including new electrics and a new roof. They have created a new bar area with seating for approx 60, a dining area for 12 and a pool room. Outside they have landscaped and paved the trade gardens to provide an outside seating area along with a smoking shelter. They have also upgraded the parking area which can take 25 plus cars. Stonesmith sold the freehold for Enterprise Inns off an asking price of £275,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=90 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=90 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=89 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=87 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=87 SOLD ON BEHALF OF HEAVITREE BREWERY Thatched Grade II country inn full of old world charm. The only pub in Sampford Courtenay, Nr Okehampton, has recently been sold by licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The New Inn was previously run under management and has been bought by Graham and Sandra Greenway, who have been joined by their son Scott. A truly family business, run with care and a personal touch, Graham and Sandra are looking to bring the pub back to life a reinstating it as a traditional village inn at the heart of community life. They are keen to cater for the needs of the villagers and are looking to provide quiz nights, live music events and to work with them to provide an additional venue for village entertainment, parties and functions etc. Since taking over the business Graham, Sandra and Scott have managed to refurbish one of the restaurant areas but are looking to redecorate throughout later on. They have upgraded the outside thatched smoking area which now has lights, heating, seating and tables. Looking to cater also for family needs, they are considering a children’s play area in the extensive trade gardens. One of the attractions of the pub is the quality home cooked food which is now available daily from 12-9 pm and includes traditional pub style meals, curries, fish dishes and home made deserts, along with a selection of new speciality dishes. There is also a full roast available on Sundays and Graham and Sandra have started offering traditional cream teas, which are proving popular. As well as catering to the local community Graham and Sandra are also keen to attract visitors and holidaymakers. They have already met some of the local accommodation owners and together they hope to promote each others businesses. The New Inn is situated in the rolling Devon hills and fronts the main A3072 from Hatherleigh to North Tawton and is approximately 5 miles from Okehampton and the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. A substantial thatched country inn it is Grade II Listed and thought to date back to the 16th century. Much of the original character and many of the features, including exposed beams and open fireplaces, have been kept to create a real old world charm. The main trade areas briefly provide an open plan bar with approx 40 covers and a restaurant with a further 30 covers. The private accommodation provides 3 double bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and office. Outside the grounds extend to approximately 1 acre and provide an enclosed rear courtyard, fenced trade garden with picnic tables etc, a paddock and car park for approx 28 cars. Acting on behalf of Heavitree Brewery, Stonesmith sold The New Inn for an undisclosed figure http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=86 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=86 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=83 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=80 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=77 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=76 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=71 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=61 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=37 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=36 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=34 http://www.dbagents.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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=33 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=33 Location, Location, Location Due to its position on the busy A37 at Melbury Osmond in Dorset, the Rest and Welcome Inn was in an ideal location for new owners Paul Conway and Jill Scott. The property is on a main tourist route between Yeovil and Dorchester and well known as a dining pub, report selling agents Stonesmith of Exeter. The Rest and welcome trades as a traditional Westcountry pub with a high food turnover, attracting regular, local and passing trade. To meet the demand Paul and Jill have increased the trading hours and are now open all day. They have endeavoured to take a vested interest in their customers, and have been warmly welcomed to the pub. The Rest and Welcome previously had a reputation for good food which Paul and Jill have now expanded on. They have introduced a new and exciting menu consisting of home made local food with a regularly changing specials board. Light bites are also now available outside of chef hours. To complement the meals Paul and Jill have sourced and introduced a new wine list to add to their fine selection of ales. The pub is particularly well known locally and within the surrounding area for its skittles, and boasts 11 in-house teams, along with a number of visiting and temporary teams who use the facilities. The pub also has its own darts team. A two storey detached property it is full of character and has been considerably and sympathetically refurbished over the past few years. The accommodation briefly provides two bar areas with covers totalling approximately 44, a skittle alley, modern kitchens and generous private living space. Outside there is a trade patio with seating for approx 24, a childrens play area, a private garden, a garage and a car park for roughly 25 cars. Paul is quoted as saying “it is important in this day and age, especially in the pub business to do your homework before buying a business and as with any commercial venture/property purchase the location is paramount. Stonesmith helped us with our initial enquiries and gave us all the information we needed. They also liaised with the vendor to overcome various drainage and technical issues and problems”. Paul and Jill bought the freehold of Rest and Welcome through Stonesmith, who sold it on behalf of Campbell and Alison Black, off a guide price of £495,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=32 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=32 Situated in an idyllic rural position close to the North Devon coast and having the advantage of an all year round trade, The Pig on the Hill at Pusehill, Westward Ho! is a popular destination inn with a local following. Previously run by Simon Curtis and Linda Dillow it has recently been sold through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The new owners are Melanie and John Adey who have moved to the pub with their 2 (soon to be 3) children. Whilst the business has the advantage of a large seasonal influx Melanie and John are also keen to develop the local trade and are continuing to make the pub a focal point for the many local clubs and societies who have their monthly meetings there. They are carrying on supporting the pubs 3 skittles and 2 petanque teams and organising regular quiz nights. To meet the demand they have also increased the pubs opening hours. John has taken on the role overseeing the catering and has along with the chefs produced a new pub menu along with chefs specials. Using fresh, daily delivered, local produce, John hopes to soon include themed food events along with a possible beer festival and wine tasting night. Looking ahead Melanie and John also hope to introduce a new business lunch predominantly aimed at the local business community. A food led operation the trade split is 70%/30% food/wet sales. The Pig on the Hill is a family pub with children’s play areas inside and outside. Melanie and John have added some new equipment to the pub including a new children’s character ride, updated pool table and gaming machines. They have also upgraded some of the seating outside with new patio style furniture. Presently there is a web site being constructed, which John and Melanie hope to have up and running soon. For the future they are considering extending the catering kitchens and erecting a new conservatory over the patio area, offering dining with far reaching views across the countryside. The Pig on the Hill is situated off the A39 Atlantic Highway, close to the blue flag beach at Westward Ho! and the port of Bideford, Westward Ho! being named after the book of the same name written by Charles Kingsley in the mid 1800’s. It has two miles of sandy beach known as the Golden Bay, and is famous for its Pebble Ridge. The property is detached, of modern construction, and set in extensive gardens with outstanding and far reaching views. The trading areas provide 90 plus covers which include a main bar, children’s play area, dining room, skittle alley and former brewery area. Private accommodation includes a lounge, kitchen, bedroom (with a dressing room) and a bathroom. Planning consent has been submitted to extend the owners accommodation, providing extra rooms. The property stands in grounds of around 1 acre and provides 2 petanque pitches with a pavilion, a children’s play area, patio and garden trade areas (with up to 90 covers) and a large 40 space car park. Stonesmith sold The Pig on the Hill off an asking price of £595,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=31 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=31 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=30 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=30 Having been virtually destroyed by a fire in 2004, The White Hart at Wilmington in East Devon has been fully rebuilt and restored to a high standard and now trades as a popular classic roadside pub and restaurant, with 4 star letting rooms. A leasehold business it is now for sale through licensed property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The White Hart is in a prime position and set among the rolling hills of East Devon. It benefits from local and passing trade along with visitors from nearby villages. The present owner took over the business after the fire and has put the pub back on the map. She has built up a growing reputation for food, ranging from bar snacks and specials boards to a full al la carte menu, the turnover being split 60/40 in favour of food sales. With a good local following The White Hart runs 3 winter skittles teams and boasts a good all year round trade, which is seasonally enhanced in the summer months. The pub also offers en-suite B&B accommodation, at £65 per night, and the rooms have been awarded 4 stars by the English Tourist Board. A substantial 2 storey property, it has a first floor skittle alley, 3 bedroomed owners flat, a former stable block which has been converted into letting accommodation and extensive grounds. The main trade areas offer an open plan bar/restaurant with character features providing approximately 42 covers. There is also an a adjoining “reading room” with a feature fireplace and a further 12 covers, although it has the potential for more. To the rear of the trade areas is the well equipped and modern catering kitchen and on the first floor a skittle alley and adjacent cellar. The private accommodation is laid out as an office, lounge, kitchen, shower room and 3 bedrooms. Outside the former stable block provides 3 stylishly furnished en-suite letting rooms. Set on a large site the property provides parking for 25 plus cars and has an adjoining area that would be suitable as an enclosed children’s play zone. There are well arranged trade gardens with picnic benches and a rear enclosed private garden. The property also benefits from having scope to expand. The White Hart has been run by a single working proprietor (with 2 young children) and a bank of staff. The pub would be more suited to a husband and wife team which would also result in cost savings. The White Heart still offers scope for growth particularly on the food and letting side and would benefit from active marketing and promotion. The leasehold interest was sold in December 2008 off an asking price of £125,000. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=19 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=19 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=28 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=28 Fishponds Country House Hotel is one of East Devon’s hidden gems. Nestling in a tranquil countryside setting, close to the village of Dunkeswell, Nr Honiton, the hotel is well established and is renowned as a popular venue for weddings and conferences. Acting on behalf of the owners Janet Cole and Mick Hartley, the business has recently been sold to a local businessman by Mike Phillips of licensed and leisure property specialists Stonesmith of Exeter. The Hotel will run under the management and guidance of “Bespoke Hotels” www.bespokehotels.com who were introduced to the purchaser by Stonesmith. Bespoke Hotels are an established hotel company with tremendous experience in owning and running hotels throughout the UK and they have appointed experience chef Martin Barrett to manage the hotel. Fishponds House occupies a truly magical setting within 45 acres of its own undisturbed parkland incorporating 4 lakes. Steeped in history, part of the property dates back to 1201 when it was originally a cottage to the lake keeper who supplied the Monks at Dunkeswell Abbey with fish. The new owners plan to run the business along the same lines as their predecessors, providing specialist wedding packages, private parties, family events and business meeting facilities. Weddings and wedding receptions are particularly popular at Fishponds as the property is licensed for civil wedding ceremonies. The property is enhanced by a permanent marquee which seats up to 150 guests. The hotel complex includes a traditional bar with a lounge and adjoining reception area, 2 restaurants, 15 en suite letting bedrooms and four self catering cottages. There is also a campsite area overlooking one of the lakes. Stonesmith were instructed to sell Fishponds House Country Hotel on a confidential off market basis with offers invited in excess of £1,650,000. Stonesmith were able to introduce a known local buyer to the business and the sale was agreed within 48 hours of being instructed. There is still demand for good quality, well located hotels throughout the South West and for confidential up to date advice on the hotel market please contact Mike Phillips at Stonesmith. http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=27 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=27 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://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=25 http://www.dbagents.co.uk//news.php?n=25