Historic Southampton Juniper Berry pub up for sale

The Juniper Berry Pub in Castle Square is on the market – for a freehold guide price of £550,000 – following its closure at the end of last year.

The famous watering hole has experienced a rollercoaster year, from mysteriously closing then reopening under new ownership.

But it has been confirmed the pub’s doors will remain firmly closed.

A spokesperson for Admiral Taverns, who own the Southampton pub, said: “We are strong believers in the importance of community pubs and our focus is always on helping our licensees to run sustainable pub businesses.

“After careful consideration however, we felt in this instance that the Juniper Berry did not have a long-term sustainable future and therefore we’ve taken the decision to close the pub and put it up for sale."

The Juniper Berry pub had a rollercoaster 2023, closing under mysterious circumstances in February and then being reopened in September when husband-and-wife duo John and Tracey Horrocks picked up the reins.

John, 68, and Tracey, 60, previously ran The Hinkler pub in Thornhill and Sarisbury Green Social Club.

John and Tracey Horrocks outside the Juniper Berry (Image: Newsquest)

John said at the time: “It’s the most challenging pub we have ever had to deal with.”

Despite a successful reopening and warm reception from punters, the site was soon deemed unsafe by the pair.

Asbestos, electrical defects, a leaking roof, and no heating or hot water were just a handful of issues the couple faced.

Speaking on the decision in December, they said: “This decision is totally out of our control; we have only been here a short time but have met some lovely people who have helped us a lot.

"We would like to thank you all for your custom.”

The pub is on the market with Savills, and those interested will receive the price on application.