Local licensed operator Michael Schembri has bought the George Inn, a food-led country freehouse in the Kent village of Egerton.
Its location on the crest of the Greensand Ridge on the edge of the North Downs (where it commands views across the Weald of Kent and the Ashford Valley) makes it popular with walkers and cyclists.
The 16th-century pub, which lies opposite the village’s 13th-century church, is a traditional Kentish weather-boarded, whitewashed property with exposed beams and an inglenook fireplace.
The business, which makes 55% of its turnover from food, offers two bars, a 60-seat restaurant, and four-bedroom owners’ accommodation. The large grounds provide a trade beer garden, a private garden and a large car park.
The Maidstone office of Christie + Co was seeking £95,000 for the remainder of the private free-of-tie lease (which runs to 2017) on behalf of Mick and Maxine Clifford. Annual rent is currently £36,804.
By Angela Frewin