Yates Southampton

Are you a driven and enthusiastic operator ready to take on a thriving high-street pub in the heart of Southampton? We’re looking for a passionate individual or couple to lead this popular city-centre venue and take it to the next level.

Currently trading as Yates, this site has all the potential to deliver the best of a modern British pub experience — combining relaxed daytime dining, quality drinks, vibrant music and entertainment, full live sports coverage, and a lively late-night atmosphere. It’s the kind of venue that seamlessly balances daytime community appeal with the energy of Southampton’s buzzing nightlife. As the new operator, you’ll have the freedom to run the business your way, shaping it around your vision and local insight. You’ll oversee day-to-day operations, host events, and lead creative marketing initiatives that build on the pub’s strong sales and solid reputation. Perfectly positioned on Southampton’s busy High Street, the venue enjoys steady footfall thanks to its proximity to shops, offices, and student accommodation. It benefits from a strong wet trade complemented by a versatile food offering that attracts a broad range of customers — from sports fans and students to after-work groups and weekend revellers. Regular live sports screenings, themed nights, and social events have made this a firm favourite within Southampton’s pub and bar scene. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious operator to make their mark on a high-performing, centrally located Southampton pub — a site that truly captures the spirit of the city: social, lively, and full of personality. Key Features • Prime city centre location – surrounded by shops, offices, and transport links, perfect for both daytime and late-night trade • Large, versatile trading area – multiple zones for food, drink, entertainment, and events • Late-night licence – attracts a lively crowd on weekends with DJs and entertainment • Well-equipped commercial kitchen – Ideal for delivering a popular food offer Business & Financial Information • Estimated ingoings (upfront): £23,500 • Full deposit: £23,500 • Guide rent (weekly): £1,808 • Guide rent (annual): £94,000 • Forecast turnover (weekly): £24,587 • Forecast turnover (annual): £1,278,540 Ideal Operator We’re seeking an ambitious operator with: Private Accommodation The private accommodation includes a flat with a kitchen, living room, bathroom and bedroom. Regional Manager's Thoughts This is a unique opportunity and would be ideal for a publican who can engage a broad customer base, from lunchtime crowds to late-night partygoers, and create an energetic, inclusive atmosphere with memorable customer experiences. It is essential that you possess excellent business acumen and can demonstrate experience in managing a venue with a similar offering.  Surrounding Area The pub sits right in the heart of Southampton City Centre, surrounded by a thriving mix of retail, leisure, and student life. Located on the main circuit of pubs and bars, it benefits from consistent footfall throughout the day and evening, making it a key player in the city’s social scene. The area is home to a wide range of businesses, from national retailers to independent cafés and restaurants, as well as major city landmarks such as the Civic Centre, Guildhall Square, and Westquay Shopping Centre — all just a short walk away. Southampton is a bustling university city, with a strong student population drawn from both the University of Southampton and Solent University. Their campuses, student accommodation, and social hubs are all within easy reach, providing a reliable and energetic customer base year-round. The area also attracts professionals, shoppers, and tourists, giving the pub a varied demographic across dayparts. In the evenings, the city centre comes alive with bars, clubs, and late-night venues, making this location a natural stop for pre-drinks, live sports, or late-night gatherings. Its position within one of the most established nightlife areas in Southampton ensures excellent visibility and endless potential to grow trade through events, themed nights, and seasonal activations.