Absolutely disgusting company.
Took our first pub on in December, we already ran successful event businesses and food businesses so having a base and expanding was what we were hoping for.
On moving in we saw the windows upstairs were rotten, and very draughty. So instead of fixing them they screwed them shut (this is essential to know for later on in my story). We reported more things such as leaks coming through electrics from the bathroom upstairs anytime we got a shower (this happened at least 10 times), each time it was never fixed or the route problem seen to, it was bodged to the point that they broke our bath in the end. This wasn't the only leak, as a pub it was very food led so when our kitchen ceiling collapsed and flooded we reported this. The work men came, fixed the ceiling but not the leak so left us now knowing where the leak originated, then the work men dragged their tools out and damaged one of the doors making a fire door unable to be used as it got stuck on said wall.
We moved in and all the top kitchen was condemned or unusable so we replaced a lot as much as our budget allowed.
People from other local pubs reported us to our BDM over nonsense and he took their work as gospel and put us on probation due to no fault of our own.
We had a fire in the downstairs kitchen due to electrics not being up to standards and we had to stop using the kitchen by mid February due to the extractor cutting out therefore all gas cut off, electrics cut out on the fryers and it then ended up tripping our coolers in the cellar so we made the decision to stop doing food until the electrics were looked at.
A fire safety officer came out and did an annual survey to then in the end tell us it had failed again, something we was unaware it failed in the first place. We had not enough smoke detectors, only two break glass points and no way to alert us of a fire if it happened in the night, leaving us with no escape route if there was as all the windows were screwed shut! Maintenance management came out and we have them on camera admitting their mistakes that they missed a report that had been done in September 2024...three months before they let us sign! They then in the same day wanted us to close shop within the house leaving us homeless with three children, we argued this and they gave us 4-6 weeks to leave.
We were told the pub was getting sold, so people who donated their art work and photography came and collected it and if the pub was to reopen they were going to bring the items back, this was reported back to our BDM who threatened us with additional costs.
On the last week of trading I had a private booking for the full pub for an engagement party, again this was reported to the council and my BDM and they threatened to revoke my licence.
We had so many plans for the pub but are now homeless with three children who had to change their schools and leave friends behind, I've had to give our family dog away and had to leave all my possessions almost behind and sell up all our businesses.
20k we spent and have nothing to show, we are now lucky enough to be travelling the world in our camper but would have loved to stay at the pub.
The way a lot of the community and admiral and our BDM treated us was disgusting and I would advise everyone to stay clear of the shit show that is admiral taverns.
We were closed by the 24th March and moved out on the 28th. Shortest landlady in history through no fault of my own.
WARNING:
If you're considering leasing a pub from this company, I strongly advise against it. The hidden fees they charge tenants, both during the lease and after, are absolutely disgraceful. They hike up every price, from maintenance—which they fail to carry out—to the cost of drinks, for which they fine you if you don’t purchase from them. I’ve spoken to several current tenants, and most are forced to take on second or third jobs just to stay afloat due to the rising costs and numerous unexpected charges that were never explained at the time of signing.
If you want to put yourself at risk of financial ruin, then go ahead. But I urge you to avoid this company at all costs. It’s clear why they have so many pubs for lease—they’re preying on unsuspecting tenants. This company should be shut down.
Disgusted to hear how the managers have been treated in our local village pub. Not sure if anyone at Admiral is aware but I have to publicly post how disgusting it is. It’s inhumane and utterly unacceptable. We have supported Kevin and Andy and have loved the impact they have had on the village. They haven’t been allowed to manage it as it’s needed (ie sandwiches, baguettes etc). Have had zero support from their manager. To be honest it smacks of homophobia!!
I recently had a very disappointing interaction with a receptionist at Admiral taverns. The individual's responses to my inquiries were dismissive and unhelpful, lacking basic courtesy and professionalism. Given the negative reviews I've subsequently read about the company, I strongly advise others to exercise caution when considering their services."
Have been in hospitality since the age of 18. Never done anything else, with the hope of one day having my own pub. Which I have had for over a year now with admiral Taverns. It hasn't all been smooth sailing but dealing with admirals has been good.
But the praise has to go towards the area manager I have Greg Bedfordshire. He listens. And anything that is within his power to help with he will!! Honestly the guy has gone above and beyond with the levels of support provided. And you really do get a sense that he has your back. A year and a half in to our tenancy.
And loving it. And appreciate the backing we have from the pub co.
Jane and Claire at credit control as well, willing to help. Tough at times when they have to be but 100% fair!!