The British Hotel deal secures historic Port Adelaide pub license

In another part of a “masterplan” to revitalise Port Adelaide, a prominent property developer has purchased the pub for millions.

Hans Ehmann with Hotel Licensee, Ashley Coulls, and Bruce McFarlane. Picture: Dean Martin

The oldest pub in Port Adelaide has been sold for millions of dollars in a “promising” deal.

Prominent property developer, Hans Ehmann purchased the 175-year-old British Hotel from Bruce McFarlane in another $2m to $3m investment in Mr Ehmann’s “masterplan” for the “revitalisation” of Port Adelaide.

The pub’s new owner has been responsible for some of the redevelopment of the Port Adelaide area, building the Quest apartments in 2016 and the upcoming demolition of Fishermen Wharf Markets.

The purchase will mean the hotel will preserve the oldest continuous licence in Port Adelaide, issued on March 24, 1847.

Bruce McFarlane has sold the British Hotel to Hans Ehmann, who will steer the pub through a new era and in doing so, preserve the oldest continuous licence in Port Adelaide, issued on March 24, 1847. Picture Dean Martin

“The Port Adelaide pub scene has blossomed over the years and visitors now have more dining choice than they have had in decades, which is the way it used to be,” Mr Ehmann said.

Former owner Bruce McFarlane AM said the future of the British Hotel has never been more promising.

“Prior to the Port’s decline, the British Hotel was a central part of an active community where locals congregated to enjoy food, drink and companionship and I look forward to seeing that replicated,” Mr McFarlane said.

Mr Ehmann has plans to develop the hotel to attract young families.

Licensee of the pub, Ashley Coulls said he is “working with Hans on designs for an all-weather beer-garden and children’s play area so that we have an even more family-friendly offering”.

The British Hotel is involved with the Dockside Festival, running from December 9 to 11 and will host an outdoor bar, basketball experience and a skateboarding circuit for kids.