13/11/2023 14:24:00
On the market with leisure property specialists is the Eight Bells.
Located in Hawkhurst, an affluent small town in the High Weald AONB, the Eight Bells is also situated near excellent local amenities including shops and highly rated schools.
The leasehold of the substantial 19th century Grade II listed gastropub is now available to purchase and is on the market at a guide price of £95,000.
The leasehold was taken on by James Rogers and his wife Annie five years ago and since then, they have gone on to transform the Eight Bells into a country pub with a strong reputation serving high quality food and drink. It is popular with both locals and visitors to the area and has received numerous awards and accolades including the Trip Advisors Travellers' Choice Award and Knorr Professional Great British Roast Competition.
"When we took on the Eight Bells it was attractive but tired period pub," said James. "Over the past five years we've had fantastic support from the local community, and we've worked up the food offerings to provide seasonal, fresh, 'rustic country' food for lunch, and dinner."
Following the success of the past few years, the Rogers have made the decision to sell the leasehold to focus on their young family.
The leasehold offers a new owner: bar and dining areas, large beer garden, courtyard and owners' accommodation which is a former function room. There is scope to develop the trade in a number of ways, including adapting the first floor, currently used exclusively as luxurious and very spacious living accommodation but with the potential to revert some areas to letting rooms, function room (subject to any necessary consents) possibly offer Airbnb style guest accommodation and capture local function trade.
"We've really turned the Eight Bells into a thriving operation, and we currently run it as a lifestyle business operating five days a week and this has allowed it to fit around the needs of our family," said James. "The Eight Bells would suit owners such as ourselves as there are also some fantastic schools in the local areas."
"That being said, there is definitely scope to add to the business with the addition of letting rooms, running it as a seven day a week business or even a wedding venue. The property backs onto The Moor and our current living quarters can also be converted back to a function room."
Click here to view sales details. To arrange a viewing or for further information contact Fleurets on 020 7280 4700.