A popular pub in Durham, well known as the historic city's most haunted, is looking for a new landlord.
The Shakespeare pub, on Durham's Saddler Street, just off Moatside Mews, is on the hunt for a new landlord, with the business lease put up for sale by Bradley Hall estate agent for £150,000.
The building itself dates back to the 12th Century, with a pitched slate roof, historic brick foundations, and prominent signage fronting on to the street.
Reports of paranormal activity at the pub, first built in 1190 AD, include people’s shirts getting tugged and people claim to hear people’s footsteps running up and down the stairs.
It is said that ghosts have a penchant for following customers to the toilets, and whispering in their ears. People also claim that the sewing machine in the back room "randomly" starts up on its own.
Estate agent Bradley Hall says there is an "extremely high footfall" in the area, as Saddler Street links Durham Cathedral and the City’s main pedestrianised shopping area.
The property is surrounded by a variety of thriving bars and restaurants including Zizzi's, Pizza Express, and Tango.
The brochure states: "Internally the ground floor accommodation provides a cosy bar and seating area" with lounge to the rear along with toilet facilities and access to the cellar.
"The first floor benefits from a large living space to the front elevation, which has the potential to be converted to an eating area for c.40 covers."
The pub comes with accommodation for the incoming landlord, including a "large living space", kitchen and utility area, two bedrooms and a bathroom.
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The brochure details: "The first floor benefits from a large living space to the front elevation, which has potential to be converted to an eating area for about 40 covers.
"Our client is currently exploring the viability of converting the upper floors himself for leisure use.
"To the rear, there is a kitchen and utility area. The second floor provides further living accommodation including: two bedrooms, a bathroom and shower room with additional space for storage."
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