Arkwrights, Preston

Lisa Jennings, Business Development Manager, is looking for a hands-on, community-led operator who will be highly visible within the business and set the standard by leading from the front. Due to the nature of the site, we are seeking someone with proven experience in running a similar style of community wet-led pub. The ideal operator will have a strong focus on driving wet sales, with a clear emphasis on live sport, pub games, and building a consistent weekly rhythm of midweek and weekend activity. They will be proactive in engaging with the local community, developing strong relationships, and establishing multiple darts and pool teams to encourage repeat custom and regular trade. Be driven to make good use of the function room, through events, socials or as a meeting room. The successful applicant will be well organised, and confident in building a structured, high-performing operation. With the benefit of recent investment, they will be expected to fully capitalise on the improvements and drive Arkwrights forward as a standout Proper Pub within the local area.

Say hello to our next Proper Pub…

Arkwrights occupies a well-positioned location on Plungington Road, Preston, on the northern edge of Preston city centre in the Plungington/Adelphi area. It sits between the city centre, the University of Central Lancashire campus and the residential districts of Deepdale and Fulwood. Benefiting from a strong mix of local residents, students and visitors travelling into the city centre. There are excellent transport links with Preston Railway station being just 0.7 miles away and several bus stops located near by. Arkwrights benefits from being located near plenty of local shops and other businesses too.

Pub Layout

Following a £280,000 investment the refurbishment will significantly enhance both the external appearance and internal customer experience at Arkwrights, creating a more welcoming and attractive venue that appeals to both existing customers and new visitors.

Externally, new signage and upgraded lighting will improve kerb appeal and visibility, helping the pub stand out on its prominent main road location and attract passing trade, particularly in the evenings. Internally, a brighter, warmer décor scheme will modernise the venue while retaining its identity as a traditional community pub. The existing layout will largely be maintained, but with improved flexibility through the introduction of new furniture and a reduction in fixed seating, allowing the space to better support sport, entertainment and community events. Where possible, customer covers will be increased to maximise capacity. Full internal upgrades, including new flooring, lighting and ceilings, will create a fresh and comfortable environment designed to encourage longer dwell times and repeat visits. The upper ground-floor area will be developed to include dedicated darts and pool facilities, supporting competitive socialising and future team formation. In addition, five strategically placed TV screens will ensure strong visibility of live sport throughout the pub.

Following refurbishment, Arkwrights will operate as a welcoming community pub on a prominent main road, serving both local residents and passing trade. The offer will be wet-led, focusing on excellent customer service, live sport, entertainment and community engagement. Live sport will be a key driver of trade, with the full Sky Sports package showcasing major football, rugby and boxing events, helping to create a strong atmosphere, particularly at peak times. Weekend entertainment, including live music, will appeal to a broad customer base, with the potential to expand into a regular rhythm of the week featuring karaoke, quizzes, bingo and themed events. Overall, Arkwrights will aim to establish itself as a true community hub, supporting local initiatives and events while building strong customer loyalty as a go-to destination in the area.

Private Accommodation

There is no accommodation provided. This is reflected in the percentage offered.

Security deposit: £2,000

Estimated Annual Turnover (Net): £353,000

No rent applicable on this agreement

This opportunity is for you to run your pub as a self-employed manager. Admiral Taverns take care of all the running costs including rates, utilities, stock and day to day running costs whilst you take home 20% of the net weekly sales, all employment costs relating to your staff and any council tax and TV licence for the residential quarters.

All new operators have comprehensive free training as part of their agreement.

• STRIVE- The Proper Pubs way.  Held online over one day, you will learn marketing and business strategies that will help you to grow sales in your pub – step-by-step.
• E-Learning Training for you and your staff. Featuring more than 30 courses for both you and your staff, you’ll have access to a wide range of topics from Compliance, Health and Safety to Personal Development and Wellbeing.