FLOATING CAFE IN THE POOL OF LITTLE VENICE SOLD

Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of The Waterside Café, a canal-side river barge in the pool of Little Venice, Grand Union Canal, London.

This iconic floating café, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, is popular with residents and tourists who enjoy the canal-side walks and views of the pool. The peaceful location is often frequented by local artists on the towpath, capturing the views of Browning’s Island and the wildlife surrounding it.

Robert Shackleford purchased the barge and opened the café in 1995 and said: “It was an opportunity to introduce a café in this beautiful location. With the help of the Canal & River Trust, we started The Waterside Café in the Pool of Little Venice close to the moorings of Jasons Trip and London Waterbus who do hourly trips to Camden Lock. I am sure that Digiio will build on this family business and I wish them every success in the future.”

Daniel Langton, representing the café’s new owners Digiio Limited, said: “We are delighted to have taken over The Waterside Café. Our mission will be to build upon 30 years of this amazing venue, being part of the community, offering a friendly place to relax, enjoy a bite to eat and drink while taking in the beautiful sights of Little Venice. We can’t wait to welcome customers old and new aboard!’”

David Wilson, Associate Director at Christie & Co who managed the sale, said: “The Waterside Café is a unique inland vessel, in the idyllic, high footfall setting of the Pool of Little Venice, serving the local community and tourists alike. The café has been operated by our client for 30 years and we are thrilled to have completed a sale to the new owners. The sale of The Waterside Café proves that there is significant demand for hospitality businesses in prime tourist hotspots.”

The Waterside Café was sold at an undisclosed price.