Titanic, Southampton

We are seeking an experienced licensee to lead The Titanic, driving wet sales while growing and enhancing the food offer. Building on strong existing foundations, there is real scope to unlock further growth at this iconic pub. With its prime position in the heart of Southampton and consistent appeal to both tourists and locals, the opportunity is perfectly placed for someone ready to take it up a gear.

This is a chance to make your mark on a venue steeped in history. We’re looking for a dynamic, innovative licensee(s) with a community focused mindset and a passion for delivering an exceptional pub experience. The right person will maximise income, strengthen the offer, and cement The Titanic’s reputation as a go to destination for drinks, dining and entertainment.

Located on Simnel Street in the heart of historic Southampton, the Titanic sits within the city’s old walls, just steps from the bustling high street. A pub has stood on this site since the 1880s, with the building itself rebuilt during Victorian times. In 2012, it was renamed in tribute to the passengers and crew of the RMS Titanic, which departed on its ill-fated maiden voyage just yards away, 100 years earlier.

Perfectly positioned for both locals and visitors, the pub is directly opposite West Quay Shopping Centre, just a five minute walk from the Isle of Wight ferry terminal and around 10 minutes from the International Cruise Terminal. Excellent transport links make it easily accessible, with Southampton Central Station only a short bus or taxi ride away, and ample city-centre parking nearby.

Pub Layout

The trade area is open-plan, centred around a striking bar servery that serves as the hub of the pub. At the far end of the space, a warm open fire creates a cosy focal point, especially popular during the colder months. The trade kitchen, located at the rear of the bar servery, delivers a pub grub menu.  In November 2024, The Titanic benefited from a transformational refurbishment, with significant improvements to both the interior and exterior, enhancing the overall atmosphere and visitor experience.

The Titanic is a wet led pub, with food offered to compliment it’s drinks selection. The bar features an extensive range of draught beers, including Doom Bar, traditional real ales, and Guinness, alongside a selection of homemade gins and a variety of premium spirits. The sales mix reflects this focus, with approximately 80% wet sales to 20% food.

The pub is a vibrant social hub, regularly hosting live music, DJs and karaoke, and is a popular destination for football fans on match days at St Mary’s Stadium. It’s also dog friendly and offers reliable Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for remote workers, office staff, or anyone looking to combine a relaxed atmosphere with connectivity.

Private Accommodation

The private accommodation is a generous size and consists of three bedrooms, lounge/office and bathroom all in good order.

Annual Rent: £29,500

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

Working Capital: £4,000

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.