Ship Inn

Set in a charming rural village just minutes from the A2, this inviting pub offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced operator to build a standout destination while maintaining the warm, value‑led offer locals already enjoy.

With 80 internal dining covers, a relaxed drinking area with a snug, and a large terrace and garden that thrives in warmer months, the pub’s layout provides the flexibility to shape memorable guest experiences and host events that draw in both regulars and new visitors. The ideal operator will be confident in running a food‑led business and skilled at creating reasons for customers to return, whether through quality home‑cooked dishes, atmosphere, or thoughtful touches that reflect the character of the village. Strong engagement with the community, combined with a focus on attracting diners from further afield, will help unlock the site’s full potential. Planned fit‑to‑let works to the back of house and accommodation will prepare the business for its next chapter, offering a solid platform for someone ready to bring their own twist while respecting what already makes the pub loved. This is an opportunity to take a much‑loved village pub, full of charm and potential, and elevate it into a destination known for great food, genuine hospitality, and an experience that keeps guests coming back. Key facts • Annual rent: £39,000 • Upfront cost: £27,250 • Forecasted operator turnover: £598,942 • Forecasted operator profit (inc machine): £39,878 • Forecasted operator machine profit: £1,500 • Type of tie: Full tie: Access to Discounted Wines, Spirits & Minerals Price List • Machine product agreement: Restricted (50/50 share) Entry costs Entry cost is approximately £27250 which includes 25% of the fixtures & fittings value, deposit, stock and working capital. Any additional costs will be confirmed in your schedule 1 information. You will also need to obtain independent professional legal and financial advice. Please note, the fixtures and fittings value is estimated and will be confirmed on change day and an assisted purchase plan is available to purchase the remaining 75% of fixtures and fittings. Trading space The trade space is deceptively large and designed to offer a seamless flow for guests. Entering through the front door, visitors are met with a spacious central bar that anchors the room and creates an immediate sense of welcome. To the right sits the kitchen, positioned conveniently for swift service to the restaurant-style seating that fills the main dining area, which accommodates around 80 covers. To the left, the pub extends into a more casual drinking space that wraps around the building, offering a relaxed atmosphere complemented by a partially hidden snug that gives the room character and creates natural pockets for smaller groups. The toilets are situated on this side, keeping the main dining area undisturbed. The flexibility of the internal layout allows the space to adapt easily to different trading styles, from busy dining services to more informal gatherings. Beyond the interior, the trade area extends out to a generous terrace with around 40 covers, making it a standout feature during warmer months and ideal for casual dining, drinks and events. The large rear garden further adds to the sense of scale and opportunity, enabling the pub to host outdoor occasions and drive additional revenue during peak seasons. Altogether, the layout offers a blend of atmosphere, practicality and versatility that supports both strong food-led operations and relaxed social trade. Private accommodation The accommodation is split over multiple levels and comprises 3 bedrooms, kitchen, lounge, bathroom, toilet and office.