Charles Xii York

The Charles XII in York offers a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic and community-minded operator to take on one of the city’s most well-known and best-loved pubs.

The Charles XII in York offers a fantastic opportunity for a dynamic and community-minded operator to take on one of the city’s most well-known and best-loved pubs. Perfectly positioned in Heslington Village, just a short walk from the University of York, this thriving venue enjoys the best of both worlds — a strong student following alongside a loyal local customer base. Inside, the pub is beautifully presented, featuring a spacious trading layout that’s ideal for a mix of social drinking, casual dining, and lively evening entertainment. The large enclosed beer garden is a major draw in warmer months, offering a welcoming outdoor space for everything from student gatherings to family get-togethers. There’s a real opportunity here for an operator to introduce a fresh, locally inspired food offer, complementing the busy drinks trade and broadening the pub’s appeal to families, professionals, and visitors alike. For the right person, The Charles XII represents a rare balance of high-energy student trade and loyal village custom — a chance to run a successful, well-established business that sits right at the heart of both its community and campus life. Key Features • Prominent location in Heslington Village, moments from the University of York campus. • Excellent reputation among students as a lively, welcoming social pub. • Large enclosed beer garden – a standout feature that attracts customers throughout spring and summer. • Spacious interior with a flexible trading layout ideal for dining, sport, and events. • Opportunity to introduce a new, fresh food menu focused on local produce and value. • Strong local following alongside high-volume student trade. • Attractive village setting with great kerb appeal and easy access to York city centre. • Scope for further growth through events, community engagement, and marketing. Business & Financial Information • Estimated ingoings (upfront): £23,545 • Full deposit: £22,750 • Agreement fee: £795 • Guide rent (weekly): £1,750 • Guide rent (annual): £91,000 • Forecast turnover (weekly): £22,018 • Forecast turnover (annual): £1,144,938 Ideal Operator The Charles XII calls for a confident, adaptable operator who knows how to strike the perfect balance between a vibrant student pub and a welcoming local favourite. The ideal publican will be: Experienced in both community and student-led trading, able to manage lively nights while maintaining calm, consistent daytime operations. Creative and entrepreneurial, ready to introduce a fresh, approachable food offer that complements a strong drinks-led core. Outgoing and energetic, building genuine connections with students, locals, and university societies alike. Event-driven, with the ability to plan and deliver everything from quiz nights and live music to summer garden parties and themed nights. Digitally savvy, using social media and online promotions to keep the venue front of mind for students and residents. Passionate about hospitality, focused on delivering warm, reliable service that keeps guests returning time and again. This is the perfect opportunity for an operator who thrives in sociable, community-driven settings and wants to make their mark on one of York’s most recognisable pubs — a venue with heart, heritage, and huge potential. Private Accommodation The accommodation at The Charles XII includes a well-presented one-bedroom private living space, complete with a kitchen, bathroom, and lounge — ideal for an operator looking for comfortable on-site living in a charming village setting. Regional Manager's Thoughts As Regional Manager, I see The Charles XII as a rare opportunity to take on a truly versatile pub in a prime York location. With its enviable mix of student energy and local loyalty, a beautiful beer garden, and a layout perfect for dining and events, it’s ready for an operator who can blend atmosphere with authenticity. The right publican will see the potential to evolve The Charles XII — keeping its lively, youthful buzz while introducing a fresh, local food offer that broadens its appeal and drives year-round trade. This is a pub with real personality and presence, and with the right leadership, it can continue to be a cornerstone of both Heslington life and York’s wider social scene. For an ambitious, community-minded operator, this is the kind of pub that can quickly feel like home — and deliver exceptional results. Surrounding Area The Charles XII enjoys an enviable location in Heslington, a picturesque village that sits right on the edge of York’s vibrant university campus. This setting delivers the perfect mix of consistent student footfall and a well-established local community, ensuring strong trade throughout the year. With the University of York just a short stroll away, the pub benefits from a vast student population — ideal for social events, society nights, and value-led promotions that keep the venue buzzing midweek and weekends alike. At the same time, the village’s residential community supports a friendly, traditional pub atmosphere, appreciating quality food, cask ales, and personal service. Nearby businesses, visitors, and campus staff also add steady lunchtime and early evening trade. This diverse demographic gives the next operator real scope to grow both sides of the business — maintaining The Charles XII’s reputation as a student favourite, while developing a credible daytime and food-led local offer that appeals to the wider community.