Bishop Auckland pub for sale opposite new Auckland Project hotel

The Sportsmans Inn, located on North Bondgate and a short walk from the Market Place, is on the market for £295,000.

The inn was purchased by its current owners in 2001 and has been leased out to different tenants ever since.

(Image: Sidney Phillips Limited)

This famous venue, formerly known as ‘The Merry Monk’, is renowned for being Bishop Auckland’s go-to late-night venue for local residents.

It is home to a big open bar, with space for 90 people, plus a first-floor apartment with two double bedrooms.

The establishment is currently owned by a landlord who is open to granting a new lease, with possible terms ranging from seven to fifteen years, with annual rent set at £25,000.

(Image: Sidney Phillips Limited)

The bar was recently vacated by tenants who rented it for £30,000 per annum.

The first-floor flat was partially refurbished to function as an Airbnb-style accommodation before its tenants’ departure.

It also carries a staff room with kitchen facilities, a basement cellar, and an outdoor patio area with stairs leading down to Wear Chare Road.

Due to its prime location and proximity to numerous ongoing regeneration projects, the inn is poised for potentially increased trade.

(Image: Sidney Phillips Limited)

Situated near the local market square, it overlooks the town centre and lies directly opposite the newest project led by The Auckland Project – a 59-bedroom hotel.

Bishop Auckland is currently in the middle of a massive remodelling spree, encompassing projects like a £26.6 million leisure centre, new STACK leisure and social hub, plus modern upgrades to its surrounding cultural sites.

The Auckland Project, a local regeneration charity, is behind most of these projects, which are expected to buoy local tourism.

(Image: Sidney Phillips Limited)

The establishment carries an active premises licence, authorising it to sell alcohol from 9am-1am on Mondays to Wednesdays, extending to 2am on Thursdays, and until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Sunday hours run from 12pm until 2am.

The building is not listed but falls within a conservation zone on the meeting point of North Bondgate, Market Place, and Wear Chare.

Despite the premise historically being tenant-run, the current owners have not directly managed the business and, as such, no trade is sold or warranted.