Run an Admiral Pub, Mother Shiptons Inn, Knaresborough

Please note: Applicants must be prepared to invest financially in taking on and running this pub. To understand the level of investment required, please review the financial section.

The Mother Shiptons Inn is a charming and picturesque pub located in the historic market town of Knaresborough, just four miles east of Harrogate. Nestled along the banks of the River Nidd, the pub boasts a stunning location with direct views of the famous Mother Shipton’s Cave, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy both history and nature. The beer garden, positioned right by the river, offers a tranquil setting where visitors can unwind while watching the gentle flow of the Nidd.

Knaresborough itself is an affluent town, rich in history, and, like its nearby neighbour Harrogate, is known for its spa town heritage. Knaresborough is easily accessible with well-connected transport links. The A661 road connects to Leeds, while the A59 runs through to York, making it simple to travel to and from the town. The town also benefits from regular train links to both Harrogate and York, and a reliable bus service ensures convenience for its residents and visitors.

The Mother Shiptons offers inviting spaces across three distinct trading areas. Upon entering, you’ll find a cosy dining room to the left, ideal for smaller gatherings, with seating for up to 20 people. This area could easily be adapted for private functions. Opposite, the main trading area exudes warmth and charm with its open fire, a mix of carpeted and wooden floors, and traditional panelled walls adorned with beamed ceilings. Ornate fittings and soft furnishings enhance the welcoming atmosphere. A small raised section offers an intimate spot for private dining, perfect for a more secluded experience. Beyond this, you’ll enter a comfortable lounge with seating for around 20, which opens out onto a spacious beer garden overlooking the river Nidd, offering a relaxing setting for outdoor enjoyment.

The Mother Shiptons is a vibrant, community-focused wet-led pub with a solid food offering that complements its reputation for warmth and hospitality. Renowned for providing a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors, the pub enjoys a steady trade throughout the year, supported by a loyal local clientele. From Easter to October, the influx of tourists drawn to the nearby Mother Shipton’s Cave helps to further boost the pub’s popularity, making it a bustling hub for those exploring the area. While the current food menu offers a solid selection that pairs well with its drinks, there is considerable potential to expand and elevate the food offering which could transform into a destination food pub, attracting even more customers.

The domestic accommodation consists of two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen, bathroom and separate toilet, all of which is in good order.

• Annual Rent: £39,800
• Security Deposit: £5,000 or the equivalent of three months’ rent, whichever is greater
• Working Capital: £3,000
• Stock: £4,000
• Fixtures and Fittings: To be confirmed upon valuation – funding options may be available for the right licensee.
• Tie: All drinks categories are tied. For fully funded licensees on long term agreements, we offer free-of-tie options for certain drinks categories in exchange for an annual fee.

Admiral Taverns is seeking a licensee with a balance of excellent catering skills, customer service, and the vision to grow the pub’s offerings while staying closely connected to the locals. A strong catering experience is essential as food is the key driver for success alongside maintaining high standards and delivering an exceptional dining experience. A knowledge of the local area is also highly valuable, allowing you to better connect with the community and tailor your offerings to local preferences. While food remains the core focus, there is significant potential to expand the pub’s social and entertainment offerings. Engaging locals with popular events like quiz nights and live entertainment will not only boost foot traffic but also enhance the pub’s reputation. Effective marketing will be key to driving both food sales and overall business growth. You’ll need to be proactive in using local marketing strategies, social media, and in-house events to promote and attract customers.