A popular pub on Gloucester Road recognisable by its faux Tudor style is seeking new owners after its parent company has decided to sell up. Wickwar Wessex Pub Co has decided to sell the Gloucester Road Ale House and Kitchen from its portfolio of 14 venues across Bristol and Gloucestershire.
Wickwar bought the former Forester Arms back in 2016, kitting it out with a modern refurbishment and giving it a new lease of life. Gloucester Road Ale House occupies a prominent spot on the high street, known for its rotating six cask ales as well as offering an extensive range of beers and ciders.
The property is being marketed by Matthew Phillips Surveyors and is on the market as a freehold for offers in the excess of £650,000. It's spread across three storeys and equipped with an oak bar counter and open plan seating, offering a mixture of booths and tables. There is also a beer basement in the cellar as well as a second-floor flat comprised of a double bedroom, lounge, kitchen, box room and bathroom.
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When asked about the reason for the sale, a spokesperson for the estate agents said: "I confirm that the marketing of the GRAH is simply part of a routine portfolio review and that Wickwar is continually seeking opportunities in and around Bristol to expand its operation."
It is currently unclear whether the pub will close as a result of the sale, dependent on the decision of its new owner. The listing, however, promotes the sale as an opportunity for bar and restaurant operators and investors.
Gloucester Road Ale House has mostly positive reviews online and has attained a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor based on customer feedback. Recent reviews has praised the pub's food - a mixture of pizzas and Sunday roasts - as well as its friendly service.
BristolLive has approached Gloucester Road Ale House for comment.
Edit: A spokesperson for Wickwar has since said: "We are selling the business as a going concern. The future operation and any decision around that will [be] made by the new proprietors."
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