Golden Cross

Your pub with
our backing

Support that
keeps giving

Get off the
ground fast

Award winning
training

Overview

The Golden Cross operates as a lively, community-focused pub with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, entertainment, and character. Situated near the centre of Cardiff, it caters to a broad and diverse clientele, with a particular reputation as one of the city’s most prominent LGBTQ+ venues.

The trading style is centred around creating a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere with regular themed events, including drag shows, karaoke nights, quizzes, and cabaret. These events form a core part of its weekly rhythm and are key to driving footfall, especially during evenings and weekends.

The pub strikes a balance between being a safe social space and a destination for fun and entertainment. Drinks range from standard and premium beers and lagers to popular spirits and cocktails, served at accessible price points. The interior retains period Victorian features, adding visual appeal and historic charm, which contributes to its identity as one of Cardiff’s most recognisable pubs.

The ideal operator for The Golden Cross will be a dynamic, community-minded individual or couple with strong hospitality experience and a deep understanding of inclusive, entertainment-led venues. This is a business where personality, visibility, and leadership on the ground are essential.

Financial Costs to consider

Rent (Per Annum): £36,000
Working capital: £15,000
Estimated stock and glassware: £5,000
Fixtures & Fittings Value: TBC
Service Charge: £1,350
Decorating fund: £1,200
Insurance: £520
Fully tied on wet
Barrelage Discount: £130
Fair Maintainable Turnover: £435,609
Estimated annual operator profit: £36,000

What’s in it for you?

Keep 100% of the business’ profits.
Put together your own menus and choose your own food.
Keep 50% of profits from any gaming machines.

Private accommodation information

Office

Yes

Bedrooms

2 bedrooms

Details

Excellent accommodation facilities - private kitchen & bathroom. Above the pub.

Pub features

Private accommodation

Beer garden

Live acts

How to apply

Add to favourites

Golden Cross, Cardiff

CF10 1GH

View on a map

You might also be interested in these available Pubs

Partner FAqs

How long is the recruitment process?

We understand that taking on your own pub business is an important decision. We are proud to operate under the provisions of the Pubs Code regulations (2016), by providing certain important information during the recruitment process which will enable you to make an informed decision about the pub business and the agreement which you are applying for. The recruitment process is structured to include meetings with our recruitment and operations team (virtually or in person). The process usually takes 3-6 weeks from application to offer, but varies depending on meeting dates, availability and information required for the completion of the business plan.

How do I obtain a personal license?

For any of our partnership agreements you must have a personal licence to legally operate one of our pubs. We can help in the process of obtaining a personal licence through our partners at John Gaunt. A member of our recruitment team will be able to discuss this option with you as part of your application or enquiry.

Do I need to pay the whole deposit upfront?

If you receive an offer from us, we will require payment of the full deposit at your earliest convenience. However, from time to time at the Regional Operations Managers discretion a part deposit payment may be made with an agreed deposit builder in place for the remaining amount. The deposit, or deposit builder, would need to be paid before the commencement of the agreement.

How do I receive my % turnover share and guaranteed retained sum?

Takings are banked in a Marston’s account in accordance with the agreements, to allow us to deduct our Management Charge. Your share (‘Retained Sum’) will be settled on a weekly basis. Any guaranteed annual Retained Sum is released on a weekly basis to you at the same time as your turnover % share Retained Sum.

Can I replace the menu? Can I run specials?

In any partner agreement pub with a Marston’s menu on offer there is no opportunity to put on your own version of food or specials due to allergies and food regulations. We do have a number of pubs that do not have a Marston’s menu in, and you are free to put on your own food menu.

What would happen if I wanted to exit the business before the end of the term?

Marston’s are well aware that life doesn’t always go to plan, that’s why most of our Partnerships have an early termination clause which can be triggered by both parties. There is the option to give three or six months’ notice (depending on the agreement) for both parties and would need to be confirmed in writing to your Area Manager.

What development opportunities are there?

Our award-winning learning and development teams offer tonnes of support and training to both partners and your pub teams. When you join us, you will be booked onto our BII* accredited induction programme which includes classroom-based learning, practical sessions and for our food-led businesses, time spent at one of our Centres of Excellence pubs where an experience operator will show you the ropes.

As a Marston’s partner, you’ll also get access to our online training platform where you will be able to access a wide range of free online training courses, tools, and resources. In addition, our trainers will support you with in-person and virtual training sessions when you need the extra help! Our team can also help you access a range of apprenticeships for entry level team members, up to managers and directors.

Can I become a multi-site operator with Marston’s?

We do have multiple pub operators across our business, this is approved on a case by case basis and would need to be approved at a senior level. Feel free to discuss this with a member of our recruitment team in the first instance.

What happens next?

Speak to a member of our team

Meet one of our area managers

Providing you with information on the pub

Present your business plan

Offer and arrangements for taking on your pub business!