Brawns Den, Durham

The Brawns Den is a cosy pub nestled in the heart of Brandon, a village steeped in both agricultural and historical significance, owing to its ex-mining roots. Its location on the corner of a bustling residential area suggests it’s not just a place to grab a drink or a bite to eat, but a community focal point. Situated a short distance, South-West of Durham City Centre the area is served by a regular bus service that runs daily, providing convenient access to Durham City Centre and access via major roads like the A690 and A691 ensures the Brawns Den is easily accessible, making it the perfect destination venue.

Pub Layout

On entering the Brawn’s Den, you are welcomed by an outstanding décor which attracts locals and those from further afield. There is an impressive sized central bar server situated in the heart of the pub which services all areas. The trading areas are separated into different sections with their fixtures and fittings, from poser tables on the tiled floor, to fixed seating for diners in the carpeted areas and mis-match loose seating on the solid wooden floor. The pub has been made up in a very much rustic shabby chic way, with distressed wood on the bar, exposed beams and stone chimney breast. The Brawn’s Den is set on a huge plot, benefiting from not only a generous beer garden with patio areas and picnic benches, but also offers a car park for over twenty vehicles.

The Brawn’s Den has something to offer for everyone, starting at house spirits ranging up to top shelf quality, including an impressive gin offer. The attractive bar is home to a number of hand pulls for cask ale and also entertains a strong variety of lagers and ciders, there is also a good selection of soft drinks, teas and coffees. They currently have three menus available; Light Bites, Main Menu, Children’s Menu. All three menus have a variety of options and all of which cater for all dietary requirements.

Private Accommodation

The private accommodation is on the first floor and consists of two bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom, living room and office space.

Annual Rent: £15,000

Security Deposit: £5,000

Working Capital: £4,000

Stock: £3,000

Business Rates: £Nil.  Based on the April 2023 rating list, the Zero Rates Payable is based on small business rates relief being applied and the licensee only occupying one property for commercial purposes.

Fixtures and Fittings: To be confirmed upon valuation – funding options may be available for the right licensee.

Tie: All drinks categories are tied.  For fully funded licensees on long term agreements, we offer free-of-tie options for certain drinks categories in exchange for an annual fee.

Training: £325 plus VAT

For a breakdown on financial information, please refer to the ‘Additional Info’ tab.

Admiral Taverns are ideally looking for a licensee or couple who can focus on both excellent customer service and high-quality food. Previous experience in managing a pub or similar establishment would be advantageous. A background in catering or kitchen management with proficiency in producing high-quality pub favourites is essential alongside ensuring the site is catering to various dietary preferences demonstrating versatility and inclusivity. Engaging well with locals and creating a warm, inviting environment will be key to driving footfall, especially during the evenings and understanding and appreciation of cask ale would enhance the pub’s appeal to ale enthusiasts, therefore enhancing the drinks selection on offer. The combined expertise would ensure that the pub thrives both in terms of customer satisfaction and financial sustainability.

Annual Rent – This is our lowest rent figure associated with a Full Tie.  If the tie is reduced the effective rent (via Tie Release Fees) will increase.  Rent is billed and paid for weekly in advance depending on the payment terms agreed). On occasion, our Business Development Manager will discuss a start up rent which is discretionary to an individual pub and can be discussed.

Security Deposit – This sum of money will be held on your account and will be returned to you on exiting of the pub based on your final account balance and the condition of the property.  Our standard deposit is 25% of the headline rent.  On occasion, we can negotiate a lower security deposit with the aim to build up to our full deposit on a long term agreement.

Working Capital – This is a recommend amount required which will be used in the day-to-day running of the business.

Stock – This will be valued by an independent valuer on the day you take over the pub. This includes unbranded glassware, unopened bottles, wines, spirits, any unopened / opened kegs and cask ale providing the container is unopened.

Fixtures & Fittings – This includes any item that is bolted to the floor or walls, and a fitting to be any item that is free standing or hung by a nail or hook. This will also include furniture.

Tie: All drinks categories are tied.  For fully funded licensees on long term agreements, we offer free-of-tie options for certain drinks categories in exchange for an annual fee.

Training – Before signing a long term agreement, you will be required to attend our 7 Steps to Sales Success training programme.  Held online over three days, you will learn marketing and business strategies that will help you to grow sales in your pub – step-by-step.

Service Charge Cost – £60.89 per week – The Admiral Taverns Premium Maintenance Package will help take care of your compliance and statutory obligations with one simple fee, whilst giving you piece of mind about your boiler and cellar cooling repair and replacement.  This also includes full access to e-learning for you and your staff.

*Zero Business Rates – Based on the April 2023 rating list, the Nil Rates Payable is based on small business rates relief being applied and the licensee only occupying one property for commercial purposes.  Please note, this only applies to pubs marked with an Asterix *