The Bristly Hog, 69 Stricklandgate, Kendal, LA9 4LT

The Bristly Hog Café sits within a beautiful historic listed building dating back nearly 500 years, offering character and charm in a setting that reflects Kendal’s rich architectural heritage.

Formerly a brush factory, hence the name “Bristly Hog”, the building still retains period features and signage that add to its unique identity on the high street.

The Bristly Hog enjoys an exceptional reputation, reflected in its impressive 4.7‑star customer rating, and is fully licensed and ready to trade.


A key feature of this opportunity is the beautifully refurbished two‑bedroom holiday apartment located on the top floor. Tastefully modernised while retaining historic charm such as exposed beams and traditional features, the apartment generates approximately £30,000 turnover with £20,000 net profit, providing a strong secondary income stream.

The Bristly Hog Café is prominently located on Stricklandgate, one of Kendal’s main high‑street thoroughfares. Placed right in the heart of the town centre making it easily accessible to both locals and visitors exploring the town’s shops, independent businesses and historic streetscape.

Centrally positioned, the location benefits from strong pedestrian flow, close proximity to local amenities, and convenient connections to nearby attractions.

Stricklandgate itself forms a key part of Kendal’s commercial core, lined with shops, cafés, and services, and is well‑frequented by tourists drawn to the Lake District gateway town.

The ground floor is home to the bustling café, serving speciality coffees, teas, homemade cakes, breakfasts, and freshly prepared daytime dishes. Further seating is provided on the first floor in a warm, character‑rich setting featuring original period details.

Ancillary areas include: commercial kitchen, customer wc's, storage

Occupying the top floor is a beautifully refurbished two‑bedroom self‑contained holiday apartment, thoughtfully finished to appeal to guests seeking comfort, convenience, and character.

Featuring exposed beams, unique period details, generous proportions, and high‑quality fit‑out, the apartment has become a popular choice among visitors to Kendal.

Offering a king‑size master bedroom, a twin second bedroom, a spacious lounge, a well‑equipped kitchen, and a family bathroom, the apartment blends historic charm with modern comforts.

This holiday let represents a substantial income stream in its own right and offers clear potential for future expansion through enhanced marketing or extended availability.

This is a truly exceptional opportunity to acquire a well‑established, dual‑income business in one of the most attractive market towns in Cumbria. With its rich heritage, outstanding reputation, prime high‑street position, and profitable holiday accommodation, The Bristly Hog is ideal for an entrepreneur, investor, or lifestyle buyer seeking a rewarding business with both character and commercial depth.

Early viewing is strongly recommended.

The business reports a solid financial performance, with a turnover of £355,000 and offers further potential for growth through extended trading hours, menu expansion, or enhanced marketing of the holiday accommodation.

The current trading hours are:

Monday to Saturday
9.00am to 4.30pm

Sunday
Closed

The premises are held on a 15‑year lease from 2018, with nine years remaining and an annual rent of £19,500 + VAT, with the next review due in 2028.

The Rateable Value is £15,750 with effect from 1 April 2026. Confirmation of actual business rates payable should be obtained from the Local Authority.

Premises License