Britain's oldest brewer is looking for a new licensee to run one of its most “characterful” and historic pubs.

Shepherd Neame wants someone to take over the reins at the more than 400-year-old George Inn in Meopham as the current landlords look to retire.

The former coaching inn is believed to date back to the 15th century. It re-opened in the late 1990's after being rescued from semi-dereliction by the Faversham-based brewery.

It is the first time in more than 22 years the tenancy has become available for the pub and restaurant on the A227 Wrotham Road, near Gravesend.

Shepherd Neame’s director of tenanted pub operations Greg Wallis said: “We can confirm that we are currently recruiting a new licensee to take over The George Inn at Meopham.

“It is a characterful rural village pub with great potential.”

Rumours have been rife over the future of the public house following the landlord’s decision to retire but the brewer has said the tenancy could be available immediately for the right person.

Last year it was among two establishments in the village hit by “dine and dashers” who racked up a £140 bar tab at the former coaching in before failing to return to pay.

The popular village boozer is open seven days a week and inside has an L-shaped bar with old oak beams, an open log fire and a separate restaurant dining room which can also be used as an event space

It also has an outdoor area with a patio, garden, gazebo and benches, as well as three bedrooms, a lounge, an office and a bathroom on the first floor for the tenants.

The George Inn dates back to 1663 and was thought to be first run by Richard Durling.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was also used as the centre of local government in the parish.