The Garret, Esplanade, Lerwick

Price reduced: Offers in the region of £195,000

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to purchase a well-known building on the doorstep of The Market Cross, known for its iconic boot on the sea-facing gable of the building. Viewing is highly recommended to truly appreciate the size of the rooms.

Most recently used as a restaurant/takeaway premises this building has fabulous opportunities with the possibility to rent out 3 different floors. The stairwell, which was renovated in recent years to meet current fire regulations, allows for each floor to have a separate entrance. Prospective purchasers will be required to contact the local authority to make necessary changes if applicable.

There is parking to the front of the building, which is currently shared, however a prospective purchaser should contact the local authority to investigate purchasing a permanent spot. The Garret is in close proximity to Victoria Pier which offers parking facilities.

History

The Garret is famously known for being a boot and shoemaker in the early 20th century. The painted K boot on the sea-facing gable not only cemented this building in Lerwick’s history, but it also served as a “mead for vessels making a direct approach when berthing at the south side of Victoria Pier, and by the late Tommie Moncrieff when adjusting compasses”.

The premises were purchased by the current owners in 1983 and had been used as a children’s clothing store with a novelty gift shop located at the top floor. Later it was leased to various business over the years and used as a tanning salon, an ice cream shop, and a card and gift store before lastly being used as a restaurant and takeaway.

Ground Floor – This floor was recently used as a restaurant/takeaway and the connection to all suppliers are available. Heating to this floor comprises of wall electric heaters and there is a connection for storage heating. There has been a recent upgrade to the lighting system and an Electrical Installation Condition Report is available on request. There are 2 toilet facilities on this floor including an accessible toilet.

A separate stairwell at the extension part of the building at the back connects to the first floor.

First Floor – There is a large room to the front of the building. On the back extension there is space for office, storage, and a room that served as toilets. The toilet facilities on this floor have been removed with the option of reinstating.

Second Floor – The second floor consists of a large room with the windows looking over the Esplanade and the Market Cross. A small hallway separates the stair well from the large room.

Area

The Garret is located in Lerwick, the capital of Shetland. The Esplanade runs parallel to Commercial Street, Lerwick’s busiest shopping hubs. The Garret can be seen from Victoria Pier, which enjoys seasonal cruise liners, and is in an ideal prime spot for local clientele as well as the seasonal tourists.

Additional Information

Rental figure per annum – £23,000

Updated reports were carried out in October/November 2023 and are available upon request. These reports are the Fire Alarm Inspection Certificate, the Electrical Installation Report, and the Emergency Lighting Inspection and Test Certificate.

Further photos, including some archive ones, available on the Agent’s site.

Click on map to make it interactive.