Specialist business property advisor, Christie & Co has brought to market, The Hammer and Pincers, a well-known country pub and restaurant, and popular wedding and events venue, located in the hamlet of Preston le Skerne, County Durham.
Set on a 4.53-acres site amongst the countryside, The Hammer & Pincers is a brilliant example of a traditional, country pub which has been tastefully refurbished, whilst retaining bags of character and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Adjacent to the pub is a field which has 20 hard standings for touring caravans, with electric hook ups, plus a field with a licence for ten tents. At present the site is run in a very relaxed manner, however, there is scope to introduce Glamping Pods, Yurts or Shepherds Huts with the necessary planning permissions.
The family-run business has been owned and operated by Rachel & Peter Walton, and Neil Skinner since 2016.
Commenting on their decision to sell, they said, “As a family we have thoroughly enjoyed our time at The Hammers. As locals, we took great pride in refurbishing the old Blacksmiths Arms and building the business into what it is today. We’ve got a fantastic team here and a loyal following of customers, which we hope will support our decision to sell and welcome new owners with open arms.
“The time feels right for us to move on after seven years at the helm but, that being said, until the pub does sell, it’s business as usual for us. Having established ourselves as a unique wedding and events venue, we have lots of bookings to fulfil over the coming months, so that’s our focus. The plan is to sell the business as a going concern, so customers should rest assured the sale won’t have an impact on any current bookings or business.”
David Cash, Regional Director – Pubs & Restaurants North, who is marketing the business, comments, “We expect interest from local pub operators, as well as regional and national pub companies and breweries. The business is currently operated by a family with a farming background, so it needn’t be an experienced operator who takes on the pub, so might appeal to someone who is considering a lifestyle change. The Hammers is a robust business in great shape, operating off a secure business model with multiple income streams, which include food, beverage, accommodation and events,” he continues. “Any buyer will benefit from the investment Rachel, Peter and Neil, along with their staff, have put into building such a profitable business with a great reputation and we look forward to hearing from interested parties.”