Mansfield publican David Buchanon is the new owner of the Durham Ox pub in the heart of Sherwood Forest.
The former 18th century coaching inn – said to be haunted by an old lady killed by a bolting horse – sits alongside the A616 Newark road in the village of Wellow, which is renowned for its May Day festival and 60-foot maypole (one of just three left in the country).
It benefits from its proximity to a host of local attractions including Clumber Park, Rufford Country Park, Sherwood Pines Forest Park and Sherwood Forest Visitors’ Centre nearby, the Center Parks holiday village and a local caravan site.
It comprises a public bar, a 50-seat restaurant, a 20-seat conservatory/family room, three-bedroom owners’ accommodation, a beer garden, former stables and a car park.
Food accounts for 60% of turnover.
The Nottingham office of Christie + Co sold the lease, which runs to 2021, off a guide price of £225,000 on behalf of Dave and Julie Preston..
By Angela Frewin