The Forester, Lower StreetDonhead St Andrew, Near Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 9EE

The Forester, originally known as the ?New Inn?, dates back to the 17th Century.

This charming thatched property, constructed from green sandstone, retains many of its historical features. The thatched roof was recently replaced in August 2021. Recognized for its homemade locally sourced food, this food-focused pub has earned an excellent reputation both locally and regionally for offering quality food with great customer service.

There is also significant potential to grow sales by further marketing the business.

Recently, two new letting rooms have been completely renovated and are now available for guests, which are in high demand in the area.

Having been purchased by the current owners in early 2022, the business is currently run under management and forms part of a regional pub company.

The Forester Website

GIA: 482.8 sq m
Site Size: 0.353 acres (0.143 hectares)

The Forester is situated in the affluent village of Donhead St Andrew, Wiltshire, alongside the River Nadder and about four miles from the Dorset market town of Shaftesbury. Conveniently situated 2.1 miles from Donhead St. Mary, 3 miles from Semley, 1.5 miles from Ludwell, and 5 miles from Shaftesbury.

Donhead St Andrew is one of ?The Donheads,? a collection of small, dispersed parishes that were once part of a single Donhead estate. The area boasts an affluent population, excellent schools, and direct access to London Waterloo via mainline railway stations at both Tisbury and Shaftesbury.

? Restaurant area, dining room & snug seating 56 with central bar servery
? Conservatory/restaurant seating 54
? Ladies and gentlemen's WC's
? Large fully equipped commercial kitchen and preparation area with walk in chiller
? Ground floor beer cellar and range of ancillary storage cupboards

All in situ trade fixtures and fittings are included in the freehold purchase price. For those interested in the leasehold, the trade fixtures and fittings must be purchased at valuation. A detailed inventory and valuation will be provided to prospective buyers or tenants upon acceptance of an offer.

Stock will be purchased at valuation on completion in addition to the agreed purchase price.

Accessed via an independent staircase on the side of the property, the accommodation features two well-appointed letting rooms. Wardour is a spacious first-floor en suite room that can be configured as either a king or twin. Sherbourne is a large en suite family room with a mezzanine bed, three steps leading down to the lounge area, and a bathroom.

? Ample rear parking
? Side trade garden seating 40
? Front patio seating 25

Situated on the first floor and accessible via a main staircase behind the bar, this space includes two en suite bedrooms, a sitting room, and a third bedroom currently utilized as an office.

The business is currently managed with a manager, assistant manager and part time bar staff with head chef, sous chef and kitchen porter and housekeeper, all being with the business and transfer under TUPE.

The trading accounts for the year ending 2024 show a turnover of £432,287 net of VAT, with a gross profit margin of 77%. Currently, the business is generating approximately £10,000 in weekly sales on six days trading.

Detailed current and historical information is available upon request for seriously interested parties.

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Thursday: 10am ? 10pm
Friday & Saturday: 10am ? 11pm
Sunday: 11am ? 9pm

? Freehold: Sold as a trading going concern (TOGC) off a guide price £675,000 plus stock at valuation (SAV).
? New Lease: The property is also being offered on a new free-of-tie lease on a fully repairing and insuring basis, with an annual passing rent of £45,000pa for a term of 10 years, subject to three-yearly rent reviews. A minimum of a three-month rental deposit will be required, with rent paid quarterly in advance. Prospective tenants will be required to provide personal guarantees, a CV, a business plan, and proof of funding.

Rateable value effective from 1 April 2023 is £10,750. The business benefits from 75% Hospitality relief.

Premises Licence.