Historic South Downs pub, The Fox Goes Free comes to the market
The charming Grade II Listed pub with rooms, the Fox Goes Free, has been brought to the market through specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co.
This is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a 400 year old pub steeped in history with hunting lodge origins dating from the 16th century and more recently the location of the inaugural meeting of the WI on 9th November 1915. Retaining many original features including oak beams, flint and brick walls, open fireplaces, cosy seating with wood and stone flooring, The Fox Goes Free also provides views overlooking a large and impressive trade garden and across the Levin Down, a National Trust site.
Located a mile from the famous Goodwood race course and vintage car racing circuit, in the heart of the South Downs National Park, the Fox Goes Free is in an ideal position to cater to both locals and the many visitors drawn to the nearby attractions, easily accessible with excellent rail and road connections to London and the south coast.
In addition to the five boutique letting bedrooms, there are seven delightful areas to dine in, including the picturesque landscaped garden, providing a total 225 covers. The Fox Goes Free is well known and highly regarded, regularly complimented as one of the most beautiful pubs in the south east of England.
The business is currently owned by Sue and David Coxon who bought the pub in 2004. They have modernised and refurbished the property, providing a quintessential traditional pub experience and have established a great reputation for locally sourced ingredients for the pub cuisine, delicious real ales, and handpicked fine wines.
Now seeking a sale in order to concentrate on their other business ventures, they reluctantly believe that now is the correct time to allow The Fox to develop under new owners. Sue & David Coxon comment, “We bought this beautiful pub 15 years ago for a change in lifestyle and we have thoroughly enjoyed every minute, working in this outstandingly beautiful countryside. The mix of business has brought us significant repeat patronage from both corporate and leisure customers and more importantly, our local residents who have supported us throughout our tenure.
“There is enormous potential in the business going forward, which is best demonstrated by the current performance of the business, particularly during the summer months when actual takings can double trade which clearly demonstrates the headroom on capacity on both wet and food sales across the rest of the year.”
Ed Bellfield, Regional Director at Christie & Co is handling the sale and comments, “During their ownership, Sue and David have successfully developed the business to a position of significant repeat trade with diversified revenue streams from the food & beverage offering and accommodation. This gives potential purchasers a great platform from which to take this highly successful business forward, and in combination with the historical context and the beautiful location, we expect the opportunity to generate significant interest from the market.”
The Fox Goes Free is offered for sale on a freehold basis seeking offers in excess of £2,500,000.
