White Lion - Ripley

The White Lion is a well-established, traditional community pub prominently positioned on Market Place in the heart of Ripley, Derbyshire. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, drinks offer and entertainment, it attracts loyal local regulars, after-work drinkers and friendship groups, alongside guests looking for a livelier weekend occasion. Currently trading at around £7,000 per week and 100% wet-led, there is a clear opportunity for the right operator to grow sales and rebuild the pub towards its previous trading levels.

The business: The pub has a strong drinks-led proposition, including cask ales, alongside darts, a beer garden and late-night weekend trading. Its prominent town-centre location gives it the potential to cater for different occasions throughout the week, from relaxed community drinking and after-work visits through to entertainment-led evenings and busier weekends.

The opportunity: The White Lion has previously traded at higher levels, creating a strong growth opportunity for an operator who can bring fresh energy and personality to the business. Key priorities will be developing a consistent entertainment and events calendar, increasing local engagement and driving weekend and late-night trade, while retaining the friendly community atmosphere that sits at the heart of the pub.

Who we're looking for: We're looking for an energetic, sociable and entrepreneurial operator who understands wet-led community pubs and knows how to create a great atmosphere. You'll need strong people and commercial skills, a passion for getting involved in the local community and the confidence to build a compelling reason for guests to visit more frequently.

What's in it for you? You'll receive a 20% share of weekly wet sales excluding VAT, while keeping 100% of any food sales. Low ingoing costs start with a £5,000 deposit and £360 legal cost. Separate owner's accommodation is included, with most bills covered except council tax and TV Licence.