Vine Tree Inn, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire
Agent: Guy Simmonds
Trevor Swan and his family have just taken over the Vine Tree Inn in Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire.
The Vine Tree is the Swans' first venture into the pub trade. Trevor previously worked in engineering for 30 years.
"I wanted to get out of engineering and had this romantic notion of running a country pub," he said. "We looked at quite a few but this one seemed to fit all our criteria. We were
looking for a really good local pub."
Swan's son, aged 20 and his daughter, aged 18, who is also a licence-holder, are helping the couple out. The family moved in straight after the Easter bank holiday.
"It has been hectic - I seem to have spent most of my time on the phone," Swan said. "We trained with the old landlord over the Easter weekend, so we've met most of the locals."
The freehold pub had takings in the region of £150,000 last year, split 70% wet and 30% dry. The business includes a 30-cover lounge bar, function room, skittle alley, public bar, one-acre beer garden and car park.
"We don't want to change too much as the locals are mostly happy with the pub as it is, but we would like to increase food sales. And we are looking at creating a bit more space for tables in the future," said Swan.
Marc Blackford of Guy Simmonds added: "This is a
wonderfully positioned and substantial freehold property in an enviable location, offering stunning views over the rolling Herefordshire countryside. The business has been in the same hands for more than 15 years and our vendor client has decided to take a well deserved retirement. Mr Swan and his family have brought bags of enthusiasm and ideas."
The business was sold off an asking price of £375,000.