Union Inn seeks new owner

A picturesque detached village freehouse in a sought-after area of north Devon is for sale.

The Union Inn, in the village of Dolton, near Winkleigh, has been mentioned in many pub guides, including the AA's Best Pubs, The Good Pub Guide, and the new Which?

Guide.

The pub has been run for the past seven and a half years by Ian and Irene Fisher, who, after 30 years in the trade, are looking for a new venture in the north Devon region.

The Union was once a 17th-century thatched farmhouse, believed to have been converted into a hotel some time in the 19th century.

It boasts an imposing position, standing back from the road, and the front elevation is lit at night with floodlights and coaching lamps.

It is popular with locals for its food, wines and its choices of fine ales, including St Austell Brewery beers and those from Sharp's Brewery at Rock.

The business is split 60% wet sales and 40% food, with a lunchtime bar menu and full restaurant menu in the evenings.

Most of the produce is sourced locally.

Accommodation comprises two bars, a beamed restaurant with 30 covers, catering kitchen, three en suite letting rooms, private walled garden, small walled beer garden with picnic tables, forecourt parking and owner's cottage.

Barney Bettesworth, of selling agent Bettesworths, said that the pub had been run by the Fishers to suit their lifestyle and that the property has great potential.

Bettesworths is seeking offers of more than £340,000 for the freehold.