Murray, West Calder

Admiral Taverns is seeking a dedicated and experienced licensee to take the helm at The Murray. Someone with a solid background in managing community-focused pubs, a strong work ethic and the passion to invest both time and energy into revitalising this cherished venue. The ideal candidate will bring fresh ideas and a dynamic approach, a clear marketing strategy and a genuine enthusiasm for pub sports, live entertainment and local events. An understanding of the local area, its people, preferences and community spirit will be key to developing a varied and engaging calendar of activities that resonates with a wide audience. From hosting local team events to curating entertainment that brings people together, the new licensee will play a pivotal role in restoring The Murray as the hub of the community. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone ready to build on a strong foundation and realise the full potential of a true community pub.

The Murray is a welcoming community pub located in the heart of West Calder. Centrally positioned within a densely populated residential area and conveniently close to a local convenience store, it enjoys a prime location that makes it easily accessible for nearby residents. As a well-established social hub, The Murray plays a key role in the local community. Situated between West Calder and Polbeth just off the A71, this former oil shale mining village lies within easy reach of Livingston, West Lothian. The pub is also just a 10-minute walk from the local train station, offering direct rail links to both Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Pub Layout

Entering through the front door, you are welcomed into the main bar area of The Murray. This is a single-room operation that boasts tasteful, modern décor both inside and out. The bar itself, positioned directly ahead, serves as the central focal point of the space. To the left, there is a mix of low-level bench seating and loose furniture, offering a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. To the right, a dedicated games area features a pool table and darts board—ideal for team sports and social gatherings. Multiple TVs are mounted throughout the venue, broadcasting a full range of live sports from all major televised channels. Additionally, enclosed, paved patio garden areas on both sides of the building offer bench seating, providing the perfect outdoor space to enjoy during the summer months.

The Murray stands proudly at the heart of its community, offering a warm and welcoming environment where locals gather to enjoy great company, quality drinks and vibrant entertainment. This is a wet-led opportunity, perfectly suited to a licensee passionate about delivering exceptional hospitality with a strong community focus. The pub benefits from a loyal local following, bolstered by regular sports teams, live televised sporting events and a well-curated selection of premium drinks. A lively calendar of entertainment and events ensures consistent footfall with strong midweek and weekend trade. The Murray thrives on genuine community engagement and has firmly established itself as the go-to social venue in the area.

Private Accommodation

There is no private accommodation with this pub.

Annual Rent: £22,000

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

Working Capital: £2,500

Stock: £2,500

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.

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 – 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 – £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 – £63.33 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 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 *