Rising Sun, Rochester

The Rising Sun has a strong track record in entertainment, supported by a lively weekly schedule that includes live music, open mic nights, and quizzes. There is further potential to introduce a small back-bar food offer to complement the existing drinks range. We are seeking a licensee who can build on the current success by introducing fresh, engaging ideas, evolving the offer, and driving new opportunities for trade. The ideal person/couple will be community-focused, able to engage with the existing customer base while attracting new visitors and increasing overall footfall.

The Rising Sun occupies a prominent corner position at the top of Delce Road, just a short walk from Rochester’s main high street and approximately a 10-minute walk from Rochester Train Station. Rochester is a historic town in Medway, renowned for its iconic cathedral and castle. Located around 30 miles from London, the town benefits from direct rail services, providing convenient and regular access to the capital.

Pub Layout

Upon entering the pub through the double-doored main entrance, guests can choose between two distinct bar areas. To the left is the main bar, which features customer toilets, a pool table, and gaming machines. This area also provides access to the extensive rear garden, complete with a smoking shelter, a stage for summer events, and two private sheds available for small gatherings. To the right of the entrance is the smaller bar, set on a lower level. This space offers cosy seating and includes a small stage area suitable for live entertainment.

The Rising Sun is a drinks focused business. In the past, it has attracted a wide audience for a variety of live events including live music, DJ’s, quiz nights, open mic plus many more which have been extremely popular. It has an outdoor garden which the current licensee has developed into a fantastic outdoor space. At present, food is not served however a small back bar offering would be a boost to the overall income into the business.

Private Accommodation

The private accommodation is on the first floor and comprises of four bedrooms, lounge and bathroom. The domestic kitchen is located on the ground floor behind the bar,

Annual Rent: £25,780

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

Working Capital: £5,000

Stock: £3,000

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

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 – 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.