White Horse Smart thatched country Inn For Sale

Business description

White Horse
Thruxton near Andover
Smart thatched country Inn next to the A303

18th Century, low beamed ceilings and lots of character
Recently extended & refurbished to a very high standard
90 covers & 4 letting bedrooms

£750,000 Freehold

The White Horse is very smart and sits in the delightful Test Valley near Thruxton, famous for its motor racing circuit. This is a wealthy part of the world and our clients set out to create a fine dining experience within a relaxed pub environment at affordable prices. One of the owners is in the kitchen two sessions a week, and helps at other times, and they are involved in the menu style and direction. A major refurbishment and extension in 2005 means there are now 90 covers and 4 letting
bedrooms to go with the all important thatch, low beams and fireplaces.

East Cholderton is 5 miles or so West of Andover, a busy market town with a Borough population of around 110,000 (2001 census). This is an ideal location for a quality food operation as it is in the middle of a rectangle made up of Winchester, Salisbury, Marlborough and Newbury, an area filled with well to do villages. The A303 is the main route from London, via the M3, to Devon and Cornwall and the White Horse is well placed to take advantage of this passing trade. The rolling countryside is steeped in ancient history with the Museum of the Iron Age in Andover and Stonehenge only 10 miles away.

The White Horse was bought in November 2006, a particular attraction being the recent work, so they have not had to spend a great deal on the property (they have added the spacious walk-in fridge). But for our clients lifestyle has been key with the business offering an enjoyable way to ease them into retirement and to escape London. Trading only 51/2 days a week, the marketing and the bed & breakfast side of the business, are all areas to look at and improve on if desired. The close proximity of the A303 is a tremendous opportunity with the pub offering a perfect place to stay.

THE PROPERTY

18th century and Grade II listed, the building is two storey, rendered with colour washed elevations, and has a thatched roof. It was extensively refurbished in 2005 when the kitchen and bar servery were relocated, the dining room extended, new toilets and cellar created on the ground floor and 4 letting bedrooms upstairs.

PUBLIC AREAS

Though much updated in the 2005, the refurbishment was sympathetic and the Bar (45) retain many original features such as the low beamed ceiling and the part exposed brick and flint walls. The property is smart throughout with good quality furniture, deep pile carpets, a wood burning stove in the fireplace and a new timber topped servery. The restaurant (45) is a modern extension, though it has been built sympathetically in the style and French doors open onto the popular garden.

LETTING BEDROOMS

4 letting bedrooms to sleep 8 (4 doubles). Each room is en-suite with a shower room, central heating, colour television, free WiFi, tea/coffee making facilities, radio/alarm clocks, and hairdryers, and decorated in a comfortable modern style.

OWNERS’ ACCOMMODATION

The owners’ first floor apartment comprises a large double bedroom, Lounge and bathroom.

SERVICE AREAS

Kitchen. Walk-in refrigerator in outbuilding. Ground floor cellarage. Various stores.

OUTSIDE

Large part walled formal gardens, mainly laid to lawn. Large tarmac car park.

TRADE

A Profit and Loss Account prepared by our client’s accountant shows turnover £261,962 net of VAT for the year ended 31 October 2008.

PRICE

£750,000 is sought for the benefit of the freehold interest complete with goodwill and trade contents (according to inventory)
excluding personal items, stock at valuation.

FINANCE

Colliers Robert Barry is able to assist prospective purchasers by introducing sources of finance if required. Whilst we do not charge the buyer for this service, we may receive an introductory commission from the lender or broker involved.

TO VIEW

All appointments to view MUST be made through the vendors' agents