Pub in Kent town made famous by Charles Dickens finds new owner
The Britannia, a local community pub situated in the historic Kent town of Rochester, has been sold through specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, to a first time buyer.
The charming, traditional pub features a 36 cover restaurant and bar area and features an attractive trade garden patio, which accommodates a further 36 covers, ideal for visitors to enjoy in the summer months.
The Britannia sits on the corner of Hospital Lane and the Victorian High Street, catering to locals and the high numbers of visitors to the historic town. Made famous for being featured in several of Charles Dicken’s novels, Rochester is a tourist favourite in the area and features attractions, including Rochester Castle, Rochester Cathedral and Eastgate House. Due to its ideal position in the heart of the town, The Britannia has built up strong trade from the high level of footfall and a fantastic reputation under the previous owner.
The previous owner, John Baker, had run The Britannia for the last 17 years and decided to sell the business in order to retire. Mr Baker comments, “James Hughes at Christie & Co had done a very good job throughout the process and despite some setbacks, he never gave up and continued to try and find the right buyer. I have enjoyed owning the pub, but it is now time for me to go and enjoy my retirement.”
James Hughes, Senior Business Agent at Christie & Co’s Maidstone office handled the sale and comments, “This fantastic community pub garnered a lot of interest from a range of buyers, due to its location in the popular town of Rochester and the high standard of the property. I am very pleased to have agreed a successful sale on behalf of John to a new owner who will look to enhance the property.”
The Britannia was sold off an asking price of £375,000 for the freehold interest.
