15th Century Bar & Brasserie over 2 Floors in Colchester City Centre

Key Points
Historic 15th Century Grade II* Listed Siege House
Ideally located on main road into City Centre
Opposite 40 Bed ‘Best Western’
Beautifully Decorated Throughout
Trading Across 2 Floors for c 140 Covers
Fully Equipped Trade Kitchen with Prep Area
Enclosed Patio Garden (60)
Car Park. 17 Cars
Private 2 Bedroom Flat
Potential to Increase Trade

The Colchester Siege ( 12 June 1648 – 28 August 1648) took place during the reign of Charles I and was part of the war between the Royalists and Parliamentarians. The Old Siege House is in close proximity to Colchester Castle and at the time of the Siege, this restaurant was actually on the road which was once used in the main route to the castle. The building was situated next to the bridge which crossed the river surrounding the town and castle.

Property
This character, period 15th Century property oozes history from its extensive exposed wooden beams, oak panels and stained glass windows. In fact the timber frame of the west side and south front of the building contains many bullet holes from the fighting during The Siege of Colchester between the Royalists and the Parliamentarians during the reign of Charles I.

The property has the benefit of trading across 2 floors, both with their own bar servery. The ground has a front and side entrance, as well as a rear entrance through the patio garden. The area has several split seating areas due to the timber frames and can seat approx 60 covers. A beautiful wooden staircase leads to the first floor, with a fully equipped trade kitchen with prep and storage areas off the landing halfway up the stairs with an open pass area. First floor can seat up to 80 customers but is split with a private dining room and four separate areas, which makes the space ideal for private parties or small conferences and meetings. The areas also boast 4 open fireplaces.

On the 1st floor is a large 2 bedroom flat, consisting of a kitchen, lounge and bathroom facilities.

External areas consist of an enclosed patio garden with furniture and outdoor heaters. Seating for up to 60 customers. Car park for up to 17 cars.

Measurements
Site Area of 0.164 acres and total Floor Area of 5,468 sq ft.

Measurements are taken from digital mapping and are approximate.

Planning
Grade II* Listed and is situated within the Colchester Conservation Area.

Currently no existing planning, however we have been advised that there has been historic consent to convert the building into flats and residential status. Those seeking change of use will need to make their own enquires with Colchester City Council in the first instance, as we hold no plans or details.

Tenure
Freehold available seeking offers in the region of £800,000 (no VAT). The purchase price includes all trade fixtures and fittings. Stock to be purchased separately upon completion. The sale would be a transfer of a going concern, or can be made available with vacant possession, as the current tenant will be surrendering their lease upon completion of the sale.

Fixtures & Fittings
All trade fixtures and fittings are included in the purchase price, save for a few third party personal items. An inventory can be provided.

The Business
Established in 2014 our client quickly developed and established a profitable bar and brasserie business in one of Britain’s oldest recorded cities. Currently open 4 and a half days a week, there is plenty of scope to extend hours and increase profit. Trading accounts for the year ending 31st March 2023 show a net turnover of £470,250. There would also be an opportunity to convert the 1st floor into rooms for a small boutique hotel. Profit and loss accounts can be made available following a formal viewing. Our client is selling in order to relocate to the South Coast.

Rates & Charges
Rateable Value £41,250 as of 1st April 2023. Council Tax Band ‘A’