ESSEX - PROFITABLE SEMI-RURAL PUBLIC HOUSE

A well-established and popular pub, with potential to greater utilise the outside trade space

The White Lion is situated in the village of Fobbing, within the Thurrock district of Essex. The village lies on the edge of Stanford-le-Hope, nestled between Basildon and Corringham. This historic village is well known as one of the main villages involved with the Peasants' Revolt in 1381, which is believed to have originated at the pub.

This semi-rural village benefits from fast road access from the nearby A13 and M25, which in turn service the nearby London Gateway Port.

The White Lion is a character Grade II listed public house which sits upon the top of Lion Hill. The property can be dated as far back as the 14th century, and is of timber frame construction with plastered elevations and a pitched tile roof. The property retains many of its original features including brick fireplaces, exposed timbers and exposed brickwork. The property has been well maintained and is presented to a high standard throughout.

TRADE AREAS
- BAR: a traditional and cosy trade space with central BAR SERVERY and seating for 25-30.
- RESTAURANT: presented with stripped wood flooring, local memorobilia and seating for 20-25.
- GENTLEMEN'S TOILETS.
- LADIES' TOILETS.
- TRADE KITCHEN: equipped with extractor, 6 burner range cooker, double deep fat fryer and a range of microwaves.
- PREP ROOM: with ice machine and fridges and freezers.
- BASEMENT CELLAR.

OWNERS ACCOMMODATION
Located at first floor level comprising:
- THREE DOUBLE BEDROOMS.
- LIVING ROOM.
- KITCHEN.
- BATHROOM.
- WC.

In addition, there is a flat housing THREE ROOMS, KITCHENETTE and BATHROOM. There is also a studio annexe at ground floor level.

EXTERNAL
- TRADE GARDEN and PATIO: With gazebo, mature flower beds and an extensive lawned area capable of providing seating for 100-200.
- TRADE YARD.
- GARAGE: Used as fridge and freezer storage.
- OUTBUILDINGS: With walk-in chiller, bottle store, fridge and freezer store and outdoor WC.
- CAR PARK: With space for 30-35 vehicles.

Our client has owned and operated The White Lion for the past 8 years and has taken a rundown and run-of-the-mill pub and transformed it into a thriving business which draws in strong levels of custom from the surrounding towns and villages. The White Lion operates as a traditional public house with a pub fayre food offering.

Trade profit and loss accounts for the year ending August 2023 show a net turnover of £579,003, generating a gross profit of 55.9% and an adjusted net profit of £78,010. Management accounts for the 10 months running to June 2024 show a net turnover of £533,476 and a healthy adjusted net profit of £104,351. Further accounting details can be made available to serious parties following a formal viewing.

The White Lion is a superb opportunity for an experienced operator or first-time buyer to take on an already long established and profitable business and further grow turnover with the expansion of the evening food offering.

LEASEHOLD £110,000 to include goodwill, fixtures and fittings. Stock at valuation in addition.

The property is held on a full repairing and insuring lease agreement from Star Pubs & Bars, for a term of ten years commencing 8th November 2022. The lease falls within the security provisions of the Landlord & Tenant Act 1954 and is fully assignable. Rent currently stands at £39,000 per annum, subject to five yearly rent reviews. The lease is of partial tie, tied on draught products, ciders and bottled beers.

No direct approach to be made to the business; please direct all communications through Sidney Phillips.

Viewing strictly by appointment only.

A full Premises Licence is held.

All mains services are connected.

Local Authority: Thurrock District Council

Rateable Value as at 01 April 2023: £25,750