Country pub and restaurant in Bury comes to market

A popular country pub and restaurant on the outskirts of Bury, Greater Manchester, has been put on the market by its licensee.

Simon Doughty has asked Blacks Business Brokers, the Bury-headquartered national business transfer specialist, to find a new operator to take over the Garsdale on Woodhill Road, close to the entrance to Burrs Country Park.

The lease on the business is being marketed for £69,950, plus annual rent of £25,000.

In its most recent financial year the business turned over £304,000, generating a gross profit of £113,000.

The Garsdale first opened its doors in 1980. It was taken over by Mr Doughty, who has a background in senior management in the hotels industry, in 2015.

The pub is currently run by Mr Doughty along with four full-time and two part-time members of staff who, he says, would stay on with a new owner. He now wishes to sell in order to establish a consultancy business serving the hospitality sector.

The Garsdale is an imposing building set in a substantial plot, with its own car park and large beer garden. The garden includes a sizeable children’s play area which has helped the business attract a large family clientele.

The business is located close to the entrance to Burrs Country Park, which is home to a Caravan Club site and hosts a number of major events throughout the year, including the Bury Agricultural Show.

It is also on the edge of a large residential area, providing regular weekday custom.

The pub itself is traditionally decorated and consists of a main bar and separate restaurant area which, together, provide seating for 90 customers. It is popular with diners and has a fully-equipped commercial kitchen.

The first floor of the property houses a four-bedroom apartment used as owner’s accommodation.

John Gaskell, director at Blacks Business Brokers, said: “The Garsdale is one of the best-located pubs in Bury, enjoying a great combination of passing trade from visitors to Burrs Country Park and regular local custom.

“Our client, Mr Doughty, has introduced new menus which have been really popular and the business is in a superb position for a new proprietor to hit the ground running.

“It also includes a really substantial apartment which could be used as owner’s or manager’s accommodation, or be let out to provide an extra income stream.

“A local marketing drive could further increase footfall, so this is a great opportunity to come in and build on some great foundations.”