Customers have been left devastated as one of Britain's oldest pubs has called time for good after serving customers for 570 years.
The Abbot's Fireside in Elham, near Canterbury, Kent, has permanently closed its doors, marking the end of centuries of service to the local community.
The historic Tudor-era establishment, which has been in business since 1451, will not reopen as owners prepare to put the property up for sale.
The freehold listing for the 15th-century pub is expected to go live imminently, though the asking price has not yet been revealed.
The landlords announced their closure, citing mounting financial pressures faced by pubs nationwide
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The landlords announced their closure "with heavy hearts," citing mounting financial pressures faced by pubs nationwide.
"Like many beloved pubs across the country, we've faced increasing financial challenges that have made it difficult to continue operating," they said in a statement.
They expressed gratitude to their patrons, adding: "While this marks the end of an era for us, we are incredibly grateful for the memories we've shared and the wonderful community we've been privileged to be a part of.
"From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who has supported The Abbots Fireside during our time here. Your loyalty and friendship has meant the world to us."
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Originally built as the Smithies' Arms in 1451, the pub boasts a rich history of royal and military connections.
Local tradition holds that King Charles II once used the establishment to hide from Roundhead forces, concealing himself in a secret hole within the main fireplace.
The Duke of Wellington is said to have been stationed at the pub before the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
The historic venue continued its military associations into the 20th century, when British and American troops preparing for D-Day stopped there for refreshments.
The Tudor-era pub retains numerous original architectural features dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
A prominent feature is its massive historic fireplace, which remains intact from the building's earliest days.
The interior showcases a carved Stuart mantelpiece panel bearing the painted inscription: "Richard Hayes, The Smithers Arms".
Local lore suggests an underground tunnel connects the pub's cellar to both the village church and manor house.
Originally built as the Smithies' Arms in 1451, the pub boasts a rich history of royal and military connections
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These historic elements have been preserved through the centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into the building's Tudor origins.
The closure announcement prompted an outpouring of dismay from local patrons on social media.
"Sad to see you go. Fridays will not be the same!" wrote one regular customer.
Another local commented: "Sorry to hear this - we didn't get a chance to say goodbye. Wishing you well for the future."
The pub has experienced several ownership changes over the past decade. It was previously put on the market in 2019 when its owners at the time announced their retirement plans.
The latest closure and sale marks the final chapter in the historic pub's nearly six-century history of serving the Kent community.
