Railway Inn, West Calder

Property Description

The Railway Inn in West Calder is a charming historic public house, ideally located on the main street, offering convenient access to both Glasgow and Edinburgh via the mainline rail. The inn is also easily reachable by road, with the A71 providing a direct route to Livingston, just 4 miles away. West Calder itself is a picturesque traditional Scottish village nestled in the West Lothian countryside. The village is characterized by its buildings constructed from light grey stone, lending it a quintessentially Scottish appearance. The Railway Inn, built in the 1800s, stands out as an architecturally unique and beautiful octagonal corner pub. Its design, featuring stained glass windows, evokes the nostalgic ambiance of an old-fashioned railway waiting room, making it a place of historic interest, particularly for railway enthusiasts. The inn’s location and historic charm make it a notable landmark within West Calder, offering both locals and visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich past. Pub Layout Upon entering The Railway Inn through the main entrance, guests are immediately greeted by the central feature of the establishment: a distinctive horseshoe-style bar. This bar serves as a focal point, providing service to both the bar and lounge areas, which are thoughtfully separated by a three-quarters high gantry. The design emphasizes comfort and tradition, with fixed seating encircling the bar area, complemented by low-level stools and tables. High stools line the dark wooden bar itself, evoking the ambiance of a traditional working man's pub. The stained glass windows further enhance this atmosphere, casting a warm, inviting glow throughout the space. Towards the rear of the building, a small lounge room offers a cosy, peaceful retreat. This space is furnished with soft seating and features a log-burning stove, creating a relaxing environment perfect for unwinding. The lounge is also equipped with a pool table, adding a touch of entertainment for patrons. This includes a small kitchen area, suitable for preparing and serving light bites or a modest menu, catering to the needs of visitors looking for a quick meal. Additionally, a covered smoking area is conveniently located at the rear of the pub, leading to a small car park for locals use. Beyond the main pub area, The Railway Inn also offers accommodation in the form of 7 self-contained letting rooms, which are accessed via a separate entrance. These rooms share communal bathroom facilities as well as a kitchen and lounge area, making them an ideal option for contractors or workers in the area who require comfortable, convenient lodging.

Trading Style

The Railway Inn is community pubs at its best! Creating the perfect blend of community engagement and commercial viability. By prioritizing community-led activities during the week and entertainment for weekend visitors, they cater to a diverse range of interests and ensuring consistent foot traffic. The addition of a small pub food offer could further enhance the experience for locals, providing them with delicious options to enjoy alongside their drinks. Utilizing the rooms for additional revenue streams adds yet another layer of versatility to the business that could truly thrive within both the local community and the broader high street environment.

 

Agreement Type