This substantial and highly desirable property sits on a circa ½ acre plot (not measured) in a prominent main road position in the historic Oxfordshire market town of Wantage. The town itself has major shops and facilities and is rapidly expanding with circa 6,000 further houses currently being built over the next 10 years. Famous for being the birthplace of King Alfred the historic town attracts tourists and holidaymakers all year round. Nearby points of interest include the thriving University city of Oxford, Williams F1 experience centre at Grove and the National Trust Bronze age Uffington White Horse hill. The local motorway networks are excellent with the M4, M40, A34 and A420 within easy reach.
This Grade II listed building, believed to be the oldest and the only 17th century thatched property in the town is of rendered brick construction sitting beneath a newly re-thatched (2019/2020), tiled and glassed roof. A small entrance porch to the front provides access to the spacious trading areas. These consist of:
Open plan trading area (circa 130+ plus standing) is a majestic mix of historical old secluded rooms with gently lit candles creating an intimate feeling at night while the new areas have a warm, vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Assorted loose tables and chairs sit on an attractive flagstone floor complimented by exposed wooden pillars, ceiling and wall beams and warped walls. Exposed stone walls in the original Grade II listed part of the building has coal effect gas fires and original features on show. Exposed brickwork and a glass atrium roof with protective sails add to the character and charm of the trading areas. There is a very well-presented and well-stocked bar servery of brick construction with 3 cask ales on offer to service all areas. The room also has 2 x AWP, 1 x SWP, a juke box and a wall mounted HDTV.
There is a fully equipped commercial Catering Kitchen with stainless steel appliances and surfaces (equipment not tested). A wash up, dry goods store, fridge/freezer storage and dessert area lead off. Ground floor Beer Cellar with python system, remote, cask tilts and storage areas. Ladies, Gents and disabled WC’s.
Full CCTV system.
The owner’s accommodation has private access and is situated on the first floor with attractive exposed wooden beams on show. This briefly consists of: 3 bedrooms (1 en-suite), 2 bathrooms, lounge and domestic kitchen.
EXCELLENT SPACIOUS EXTERNAL TRADING AREAS
To the rear of the property is a spacious grassed garden and flagstone al fresco area (circa 160+ covers plus standing). Wooden picnic benches, a large marquee with mounted HDTV, 2 gazebos and children’s play equipment make this a fantastic area to enjoy outdoor drinking, dining and entertainment. The enclosed garden area leads off from the main trading areas and has established hedge and fence borders. To the front of the property is the patrons lined car park with space for circa 30 cars.
We are advised that the business trades with the benefit of the Premises Licence (not seen) which permits the sale of alcohol during the hours of:
Mon - Sat 11am to 11pm
Sunday 11am to 10.30pm
Current reduced opening hours are:
Mon - Thurs 11.30am to 10pm
Fri – Sat 11.30am to 11pm
Sunday 11.30am to 9pm
The property and business are being offered for sale freehold (although we have not had sight of the title deeds). We are advised that all available mains services are connected (no services tested). Business rates payable are advised as being circa £15,550 per annum once Covid-19 concessions are fully lifted.
PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES (SUBJECT TO REQUISITE CONSENTS)
There may be several options for potential property development/alternative use relating to this exciting site (subject to relevant consents). Developers may wish to make their own enquiries with the Local Planning Authority.
We are informed there is positive pre planning advice relating to valuable alternative use potential in developing either part of or the whole site. Several options were discussed including the creation of 19 flats with parking & a further 8 to 10 motel rooms with parking underneath (Subject to relevant consent).
The current owner took over the business as a lessee in 1994 and then purchased the freehold brewery property in 2007. This is only the second change of landlord in 59 years with the predecessor being in situ for circa 30 years. Following an extension and full refurbishment in 2008 the owners have created a thriving, popular and highly desirable business offering quality food and drinks to a loyal, repeat and desirable clientele. Our vendor client is now looking to sell the freehold on and retire from the industry in order to be able to take life at a more leisurely pace. The business is currently operated by the owners assisted by circa 6 full time and circa 12 part time/casual members of staff. The business plays host to a popular monthly jazz night, whilst also holds seasonal events, small weddings, funerals and parties. We are advised that accounts declare a turnover of circa £584,445 (incl. vat) to 31st September 2022 (still includes coming out of pandemic) achieved on a sales split of 60% wet sales & 40% dry sales although this fluctuates with the climate. We are advised that for the first 7 months of 2022/2023 turnover is £372,000 (Incl. VAT) tracking in the region of circa £12,400 per week (inc VAT). Professional operators may wish to continue to run the business using the same current highly successful formula. In our opinion the business could even be taken to the next level with a varied extension to the trading hours along with the introduction of a breakfast offer and Sky sports package for example.
Accounting information will be made available to interested parties after viewing. Appointments can be made by emailing Guy Simmonds at sales@guysimmonds.co.uk
Visit the pub’s website at www.lambinnwantage.co.uk
All personal viewings undertaken must adhere to the evolving Covid-19 Government guidelines.
Details amended May 2023.