Canal Tavern, Kidsgrove

At the Canal Tavern the vision is to transform this establishment into the beating heart of the community. My vision includes hosting darts and pool teams, showing all the major sporting events from Sky and TNT, and regular entertainment to keep the excitement alive, the go-to destination for all, offering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone is welcome. I am seeking a community focused licensee with experience of running a similar type of venue with a mixed customer base while ensuring strong controls are in place financially.  The ability to organise and run local events for the community and experience of setting up and running a small food offering is a must!

The Canal Tavern is a versatile and inviting pub nestled in the heart of Kidsgrove, Newcastle-under-Lyme. The surrounding area is largely residential with some industry and small local businesses. Most of the town is in the Kidsgrove ward, whilst the western part is in Ravenscliffe. Sitting right at the side of the canal, its waterside position is one of its biggest features, attracting both local residents and people passing through on the canals. Kidsgrove train station is just a short distance away from the pub allowing Stoke-on-Trent, Crewe and Manchester to be easily commutable.

Pub Layout 

The Canal Tavern features a spacious 60-seater bar arranged across two welcoming rooms. Entering from the car park, you are greeted by a short corridor with access to the customer toilets. To the right is the main bar area, which includes a pool table and comfortable seating. Continuing along the corridor leads into the lounge, which features a raised seating area and direct access out onto the canal side.  This flexible layout offers excellent potential for private functions, events or a dedicated function space, while also allowing different areas of the pub to provide varied customer experiences. The pub’s prime canal-side location is a key selling point, particularly during the summer months. The attractive waterfront setting creates a great opportunity for outdoor seating and the chance to attract both local residents and visitors looking to enjoy the views by the water.

The Canal Tavern is more than just a pub; it’s a true community local, surrounded by nearby housing and local businesses. This setting helps create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular meeting place for both residents and local workers.  The pub currently operates as a wet-led venue, offering live entertainment and hosting functions. However, there is clear potential to develop the food offer, whether through the introduction of back-bar snacks or a more substantial menu over time. There is also a strong opportunity to engage with local sports teams and community groups, helping to build regular trade and further strengthen the pub’s position at the heart of the local community.

Private Accommodation

The private accommodation is a decent size. There are two bedrooms, bathroom, lounge, kitchen and office.

Annual Rent: £25,000

*Starting rent available: £275 + vat per week for first 12 weeks

Security Deposit: £5,000 or the equivalent of three months’ rent, whichever is greater

Working Capital: £3,000

Stock: £2,000

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

Zero Business Rates* – Based on the draft rating list for April 2026, the Nil Rates Payable is based on small business rates relief being applied for by the licensee and the licensee only occupying one property for commercial purposes.  Please note, this only applies to pubs marked with an Asterix *

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.

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

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 – A security deposit is required when applying for a pub with Admiral.  This will be the greater of £5,000 or three months’ headline rent. The deposit is held on your account and returned when you leave, subject to your final account balance and the condition of the property.  We will also carry out a credit check as part of your application, which may affect the deposit amount required.

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 – £350.00 – Before signing a long term agreement, you will be required to attend our 7 Steps to Sales Success training programme.  Held online over two days, you will learn marketing and business strategies that will help you to grow sales in your pub – step-by-step.

Service Charge Cost – £65.86 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 draft rating list for April 2026, the Nil Rates Payable is based on small business rates relief being applied for by the licensee and the licensee only occupying one property for commercial purposes.  Please note, this only applies to pubs marked with an Asterix *

Low Business Rates** – Based on the draft rating list for April 2026, this has been estimated using the new Supporting Small Business Scheme (SSBS) limiting rates payable to circa £1000 in 2026/27. Please note this applies only to pubs marked with ** and SSBS may be subject to future changes by HMG.