Prestonpans - new licensee looks to take over Railway Tavern

The Railway Tavern has been operating under temporary management while owners Star Pubs sought a licensee, with plans for a £100,000 refurbishment to the business, located on the town’s High Street.

It has now been confirmed that they are currently in the “final stages” of agreeing a new lease with a prospective licensee.

More details will be provided once negotiations have been completed.

New management will also come with investment from Star Pubs to upgrade the interior and exterior of the building.

The current exterior of The Railway Tavern, Prestonpans (Image: East Lothian Council planning portal)

Proposals have been submitted to East Lothian Council’s planning department, including to change the colours of the walls and roof.

New signage would also be added if approved, showing the name – which will remain unchanged – as well as promising "real ales, live music, pool and darts".

An outdoor seating area is also proposed in documents included with the planning application, adding to its 57 covers inside.

Interested parties were invited to attend an open day last May amid hopes of its refurbishment.

According to The Railway Tavern’s listing, which show it as under a ‘new deal’, the pub has an estimated annual turnover of £292,176.

It states that the “complete refurbishment” of The Railway Tavern will bring about an “exciting transformation” both inside and out, with a focus on upgrading the seating, flooring, and lighting.

The layout will remain “broadly similar” but with refreshed décor to give the pub “a fresh and contemporary feel”.

Once work is complete, The Railway Tavern will offer a wide range of drinks, including classic and premium lagers, spirits, wines and cocktails, as well as soft drinks, a coffee offer, and live sports and entertainment in the form of quiz and karaoke nights.

A spokesperson for Star Pubs said: "We can confirm that we are in the final stages of agreeing a new lease with a prospective licensee. 

"This will come with investment from Star Pubs to upgrade the exterior and interior of the pub."

A significant refurbishment was carried out at Star Pubs-owned business The Law, formerly The County Hotel, in North Berwick last year.