The premises briefly comprises:-
GROUND FLOOR
The main bar is accessed from an entrance at the front of the property and comprises an open plan space arranged around a large wooden servery along the rear wall. The trading area oozes character, with exposed beams (recently sand-blasted), flagstone and wooden floors, two wood burners and an open fire. The main bar has also been fully refurbished and redesigned by Sian Parry-Jones with bespoke window shutters and new individually designed unique lighting. Seating is at loose wooden tables and chairs for circa 55 customers. Off the main bar is a small private dining room seating up to 10 suitable for overflow diners or separate special occasion use. Adjoining the side of the main bar is the former skittle alley, which has been comprehensively refurbished with a contemporary feel and part log clad, part metallic rustic tiled walls and artificial living wall, all arranged around a new bespoke servery together with a large wood burner surrounded by a new, reclaimed brick fireplace with solid oak mantle. Seating is at loose wooden tables, chairs and banquettes for circa 30 customers. At the rear of the ground floor is the commercial kitchen, which is extensively fitted and equipped, including an extraction canopy. Additional accommodation at ground floor comprises two sets of male, female and disabled WC and several storerooms.
BASEMENT
The basement comprises a substantial storage area which has recently been completely insulated. Accommodation includes a temperature-controlled beer store, with newly installed chilling equipment and pythons and a second room given over to four commercial freezers.
FIRST FLOOR
The first floor comprises the owner's flat, extending to three bedrooms, with a lounge, kitchen and bathroom, as well as a private enclosed roof terrace. Planning advice has been obtained in the form of a pre-application regarding converting the owner's accommodation into letting rooms, with potential relocation of the owner's accommodation to the rear of the site.
EXTERNAL
The property benefits from a substantial external area to the front of the pub, which is partly used for car parking and partly for external seating at wooden tables, benches and chairs for up to 50 customers. To the rear of the property on one side is the beer garden, which has a decked area with bench seating for circa 30, as well as a BBQ station. Immediately to the rear of the main building is a converted storage container, which accommodates a manager's office. At the very rear of the site is the customer car park, with space for circa 30 vehicles. Adjoining the car park is a grassed area with a number of flower beds and scope for relocation of the owner's accommodation, as well as shepherds huts or other letting accommodation.
GENERAL INFORMATION
THE BUSINESS
Our client has established a very successful pub business with a high-quality food offering that has recently been recognised with the award of Two AA Rosettes. The Candlelight Inn has become a very well-established destination venue in the area and trade has continued to grow despite the challenges of recent years, with the business ranked in the top 10 best pubs in Somerset by The Guardian. Trading information will be made available to seriously interested parties following a formal viewing.
TENURE
The property is held freehold and is being sold as a TOGC (Transfer of a Going Concern).
PLANNING
The property is not Listed but is situated within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
LICENCE
The Candlelight holds a valid Premises Licence, the main licensable activities are as follows:
Sale of Alcohol:; Recorded Music:
Monday to Saturday - 10:00 - 00:00.
Sunday - 12:00 - 23:00.
Live Music
Monday to Thursday - 10:00 - 23:00.
Friday to Saturday - 10:00 - 00:00.
Sunday - 10:00 - 22:00.
BUSINESS RATES
2023 List: £24,900.
Please note this is not Rates Payable. Interested parties are advised to make their own enquiries with the Local Billing Authority, Somerset & West Taunton Council.
SERVICES
We are advised that the property is connected to mains water and electricity. A new treatment works has been installed to handle sewage and waste, and has the capacity to service any newly created letting accommodation. LPG gas for cooking and oil for heating.
VAT
All prices quoted and offers made shall be deemed to be exclusive of VAT and VAT will be added where applicable. In most cases all prices quoted and offers made shall be deemed to be exclusive of VAT and Vat will be added where applicable. In most cases VAT is reclaimable. Prospective purchasers should consult their accountant for professional advice in this respect.
INVENTORY
To include furnishings and equipment as per an inventory to be supplied, but excluding the owners personal effects.
STOCK
Wet and Dry stock in trade and Bar Glassware will be taken over by the purchaser at valuation on the day of completion.
VIEWING
Viewing is highly recommended and can be arranged by prior appointment with the Agents, Bettesworths.