Have you ever made a spontaneous purchase that turned out to be a hidden gem? Well, David Gorton certainly did! This adventurous man bought The Old Cottage Pub in Margate, a property featured on the popular show Homes Under the Hammer, without even stepping inside. And he got more than he bargained for – £500,000 worth of treasures!
It all started when David spotted an advert for the property on his computer. Intrigued, he decided to take the plunge and bought the pub at auction for £90,000 on his credit card. Little did he know the incredible journey that awaited him.
A Risky Endeavor
Renovating a property without seeing it first may seem like a risky move, but David was determined to turn the dilapidated 17th-century pub into something special. Although he had never owned a commercial business before, he saw the potential in this venture and decided to take the leap of faith.
Unearthing Treasures
During the renovation process, David and his wife Dennise stumbled upon a treasure trove of historical artifacts. From a stash of silver tableware hidden up the chimney to a filled-in smugglers tunnel leading to a nearby church, each discovery added to the pub’s allure.
One of the most impressive finds was an Oliver Cromwell silver shilling dating back to 1658. David suspects that it might have been dropped by one of the pub’s earliest customers, making it an invaluable piece of history.
Overcoming Challenges
The renovation process was not without its challenges. David had to deal with planning nightmares, including the collapse of a Victorian archway in the cellar. However, he persevered and invested £155,000 in making the cellar safe and structurally sound.
A Labor of Love
David’s passion for this project helped him push through the long and arduous renovation journey. He claimed that his pub renovation was likely the longest project ever featured on Homes Under the Hammer. For him, it wasn’t about the money; it was about creating a space where people could gather, relax, and enjoy themselves.
The Finish Line
Now, all that’s left for David is to obtain his liquor license, planning permission for a new sign, and a kitchen extractor pipe. If everything goes smoothly, the highly anticipated opening will take place this summer. However, as with any project, there may be obstacles along the way.
Follow David’s Journey
If you’re curious to see the transformation of The Old Cottage Pub and the treasures it holds, you can follow David’s journey on F5 Magazine’s website here. Explore the fascinating world of property renovation and discover the hidden gems waiting to be revealed.
So, why not join David on his adventure and witness the magic that can happen when you take a leap of faith and trust in your vision?