AN ICONIC Southampton watering hole which is struggling to stay afloat is now up for sale.

According to owner and landlord of the Platform Tavern, Stewart Cross he “can’t afford to make ends meet”.

This is despite transforming the tavern from a run-down boozer that had seen better days to “a thriving traditional English pub”.

Stewart claims that because fewer people are going to pubs and his rates have doubled he can’t afford to run it.

The landlord said: “I feel sad. I have been here for 22-years but for the last four years or so trade has been going down.

The pub trade is tough. We are still popular but the amount of people drinking is reducing. It’s tough running a pub that does not make any money. The trade is a struggle at the moment and it is not just me. It is the climate. We have repainted and even tried to turn the pub around. I can’t afford to retire but until I sell the place I am stuck here.”

During his time there Stewart has built the pub’s reputation for quality beer and music, featuring many live acts throughout the years.

In 1912, the tavern would have looked directly out across the brand new city docks, with a clear view of the Titanic.

It even featured in the James Cameron movie, Titanic.

The pub’s history dates back to 1873 and is of historical interest as it is built against the old town wall built around 1350.

Listed with property agents Christie & Co the tavern is opposite the Red Funnel Ferry Terminal in Town Quay, Southampton.

With a four-star rating on review site TripAdvisor the pub is a substantial mid-terrace property with both pitched and flat roofs.

It can cater for 70 people inside and at the front of the property, there is seating for 20. Inside there is an open plan bar area with a central wooden bar servery, restaurant area and a beer cellar. While arranged over the first and second floors is the owner’s accommodation which includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms.