The Black Lion is a long‑standing and much‑loved pub located in the heart of Scarborough’s lively town centre. Just off the main high street, this charming listed building has been a staple of the local community for many years and continues to attract a steady mix of loyal locals and seasonal tourists. Surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants, it enjoys high visibility and strong passing trade – reflected in its solid £6,500 average weekly turnover.
The pub features two distinct bar areas: a traditional main bar complete with pub games and a relaxed lounge space ideal for quieter socialising. To the rear, guests can unwind in a small but welcoming beer garden, while additional seating at the front of the pub provides a perfect suntrap for those wanting to enjoy the warmer days. With seating for around 30 covers, the Black Lion offers a flexible, comfortable environment suited to both daytime and evening trade.
Although currently operating as a wet‑led business, the site’s good‑sized kitchen presents one of its biggest opportunities. Fully equipped and ready to use, the kitchen enables the incoming partner to implement their own food offer – from simple, reliable pub classics to a locally inspired menu tailored to the area. Introducing a well‑positioned food range has significant potential to grow revenue, particularly when paired with the consistent guest base generated by the letting rooms.
A standout feature of the Black Lion is the seven letting rooms located on the top floor. These guest rooms, with shared bathrooms, offer a valuable additional income stream and a steady flow of visitors throughout the year. They present a fantastic opportunity for the operator to introduce breakfast, evening meals or bespoke guest packages – turning room guests into a dependable and profitable audience. Currently, the business trades at around 90% wet and 10% rooms, leaving clear room to expand both offers with a strong operator in place.
To support the right partner in getting off to a strong start, this opportunity includes an enhanced % for up to the first six months, giving improved cashflow while you establish your food offering, optimise the rooms and drive local engagement. Operators who remain in position for six months will also receive a £5,000 retention bonus, recognising commitment and helping to build long‑term stability and success (Terms & conditions apply).
With a central location, flexible trading footprint, strong heritage and significant opportunities across food, rooms and events, the Black Lion represents an exciting and rewarding prospect for a motivated operator looking to grow a historic town‑centre pub with strong foundations and even stronger potential.
What’s in it for you?
- 20% share of weekly wet sales, excluding VAT, with an enhanced % available for the first 6 months.
- Keep 100% of the food and letting room sales.
- Low ingoing costs, starting with just a £5,000 deposit and £360 legal cost. (*deposits can vary dependant on business – ask us for more details*)
- Accommodation included with most bills covered, except the council tax & TV License.
