Northumberland pub and café under new ownership as previous owners move on
The Heart of Northumberland pub and The Small World Café in Hexham, Northumberland, were both recently sold to new owners by specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co
by Nicole Goodwin · ChronicleLiveA popular North East pub and cafe are under new ownership as the previous owners move on to pastures new.
The Heart of Northumberland pub and The Small World Café in Hexham, Northumberland, were both recently sold to new owners by specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co. It comes as both business owners begin a new chapter, with cafe owner Angela Wilson taking retirement and pub landlord Alan hoping to spend more quality time with his young family.
Located in the heart of Hexham, The Small World Café is a popular, family-run business which offers a range of fresh, homemade and locally sourced food, hot drinks and a bakery selection. Former owner Angela has now handed the business over to waitress Pam and her son Leyton, who have both worked at the cafe for several years.
Announcing the news on social media in August, Angela wrote: "I'm sad to say that I'm into my final week of Small World Cafe ownership. Next Sat will be my last day in the cafe.
"All being well, I will be handing over the cafe to my waitress Pam and her son Leyton (chef). Having both worked for me for a few years, they are in a good position to continue the success of the cafe. I wish them both the best of luck and many more years of success running the cafe. I hope you will all support them like you have supported me."
Pam and Leyton have been running the The Small World Café since September 16.
A spokesperson for Christie & Co said: "Small World Café presented an excellent opportunity for an owner-operator to take over a long-established business in the heart of Hexham. With an excellent reputation and enviable location, we had a high level of interest in this site, demonstrating the demand we are experiencing for leasehold hospitality businesses, particularly in desirable locations."
The Heart of Northumberland, a Grade II Listed pub situated just off Market Place, underwent a major refurbishment in 2015 and is highly popular among locals and tourists alike. It was recently voted the eight Cosiest Pub in the UK.
However, earlier this year, landlord Alan decided it was time to sell the business after nine years.
In a statement on social media, he wrote: "Today I say goodbye to The Heart Of Northumberland after over 9 years. It's been a blast! The loveliest customers I've ever had the pleasure to serve in Hexham & I've met so many great people from the area and far afield over the years.
"It's been great to see the pub grow and grow over the years along with all the changes to Hexham. I'm very sad to be leaving as the Heart has my blood, sweat, tears & love in it but excited to have the time & opportunity to do other things & spend lots of time with my young kids. Call in and say hello today if your around or in the future if you see me out and about as I'll be missing all our chats. Lots of love, Alan from the Heart."
The pub reopened under new ownership on September 6.
The sales were brokered by David Cash, Regional Director – Pubs & Restaurants and Marslie McGregor, Business Agent – Pubs & Restaurants.
David said: "The sale of this well-invested, busy pub further reinforces the demand for assets in strong trading locations. The market town setting and the pub's popularity with tourists while being underpinned by a very strong local trade were key drivers for the buyers, an incredibly acquisitive, National Pub Company with a healthy appetite for further expansion!"
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