A pub known as one of Kent’s most haunted has closed suddenly leaving many customers shocked.

The Black Horse in Pluckley, near Ashford, has shut without notice and appears to be on the market for rent.

The pub, widely known as one of the county’s ‘most haunted’, was given a new lease of life after being taken over by Lee Varnham and his partner Gemma O'Brien in 2021.

The couple – originally from Canterbury and who have run several inns together over the last decade – purchased the building in March.

They worked quickly to restore the inside to its former glory, removing much of the paint and other additions made in the past in a bid to establish the spot as a restaurant.

There was also talk of opening the country’s only “genuinely haunted” escape room however this had not materialised.

News of the shock closure began to emerge last week but was only confirmed on November 6 when punters were informed that any bookings had been cancelled effective immediately.

In addition, while the pub’s website remains live, its Facebook page has been deactivated and its status on Google has been changed to ‘permanently closed’.

A listing from agents Fleurets has put the pub on the market for rent at a nil premium guide price – meaning any tenant will not have to pay to take over the pub other than putting forward rent.

The listing describes The Black Horse as “A semi-detached Grade II Listed period building with accommodation arranged over ground and first floors plus basement beer cellar and attics.

“The property presents principally brick external elevations featuring period arched windows under traditional clay tiled roofs with tall brick chimneys,” it adds.

“There is a substantial beer garden at the side, extending around to the rear and a customer car park with space for approximately 20 cars.”

Mr Varnham and Miss O’Brien could not be reached for comment.