Description
A three-storey end of terrace building there has been a pub on this spot since 1680. It became the Northern Belle in 1857, after a ship of the same name sank off Margate harbour. It was also a hotel and has reputedly been host to many famous names, mainly from the world of theatre and music. The building is not listed but is in a conservation area.
The owners purchased the closed building in March 2023 and transformed the upper floors into a well-appointed apartment which is used for short-term letting through Airbnb and other portals. The bar has been refurbished but still retains its character and many original fitting.Location
Set back down an alleyway within sight of the seafront, it is less than 150 metres from Margate Beach, within easy walking distance of the Turner Contemporary Gallery, Harbour Arms and the restored amusement park Dreamland which in addition hosts live music events.
Margate itself has shed some of its former image and is now a popular place to live and work as well as still retaining much of its Victorian seaside charm, plus with its newfound reputation as a dining out venue it has an all-year-round appeal. Other local towns such as Broadstairs, Whitstable and Ramsgate make this a good location for a longer stay. London is 78 miles to the west, via the M2 and high-speed trains go straight to St Pancras in 1 hour 47 minutes.Internal Details
Two entrances into the bar which is in two sections set around a central servery. A mix of wooden benches, stools and chairs provide sating for circa 40. Exposed timbers and brick plus original features add to the charm. Customer toilets leading off. Access to below ground cellar in 2-sections with chilled beer store.Fixtures & Fittings
The trade fixtures and fittings are included in the purchase price. Certain personal items may be removed from the property prior to completion.Letting Accommodation
With stairs from the bar area, accessed via a remote keypad, the letting apartment is over two floors with 1st floor providing a fitted kitchen, large bathroom and lounge with further bathroom leading off. The 2nd floor contains 4-bedrooms, three doubles and one with bunk beds.External Details
There are no external areas, with a limited outside drinking area.The Opportunity
Set just off the seafront in Margate Old Town the Northern Belle is reputed to be the towns oldest pub and has now been transformed into a spacious 4-bedroom rental apartment above with a classic two-bar pub below which is currently operated by a third-party. This makes it a great opportunity for new owners to acquire as an rent al income generating asset, or with vacant possession to operate a well-known pub in this sought after seaside town.Staff
Any staff will transfer with the business in accordance with the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations.Trading Information
The venue has evolved during the last 3-years and currently operates as letting apartment and fully functioning pub on the ground floor. Our client manages the letting via portals such as Airbnb and Hotels.com with rates ranging from £150 to £500 per night for the apartment.
The bar has been directly rUn but is currently let on a temporary tenancy arrangement at a rent of £30,000 per annum. Vacant possession can be obtained if required.
Management accounts will be available to show the letting income and bar rent to seriously interested parties post a viewing.Trading Hours
The premises currently trade all year with the bar open 7-days a week from 2pm.Business Rates
The current rateable value according to the VOA as of April 2026 is £12,750. The local authority is Thanet Council.Regulatory
The property has a Premises Licence granted by the relevant local authority. It is a requirement of the Licensing Act that properties serving alcohol have a designated premises supervisor who must be the holder of a Personal Licence. Prospective purchasers are advised to take appropriate specialist advice.
