One of Kent’s best-known wineries is expanding into the pub trade after buying two venues.

Balfour Hospitality, which is a part of the Staplehurst-based Balfour Winery, has completed the freehold purchase of the Goudhurst Inn, at Goudhurst, and The Tickled Trout in West Farleigh.

Both have served their respective communities since the 18th century.

Balfour said its purchase will secure their future for years to come, in a climate which has seen more than 1,000 pubs close in the UK over the past two years – including around 90 in the county.

The company said 2024 would be a challenging year for the hospitality trade, with the UK sliding into recession, but was confident its management could bring new life to the pubs.

It promised there will be investment into renovating the outside of each pub, putting in new menus, improving community access, and installing new management.

Both will champion local produce on their menus – including Balfour’s award-winning English wines.

The purchases bring the company’s pubs to 10 in total. The others include The Windmill at Hollingbourne, The Woolpack at Tenterden, The Ship in Rye, The Swan at Forest Row, and in London, St Barts, Bow Wine Vaults and The Bull, and one in the Cotswolds, The Falcon.

Lee Hart, the company’s hospitality operations director, said: “We firmly believe there is still a role for pubs in the heart of their villages, serving local foods, beers and even wines.

“We love the areas around our pubs, and our teams are all firmly focused on connecting with their communities as a hub for all.”

To highlight the importance of the local community, Balfour is introducing a discount for locals – where anyone who lives within a few miles of one of their venues can receive 15% off all food, drink and even bedrooms.

Mr Hart added: “Going to your local pub is about so much more than just the drinks you enjoy and the food you eat. It’s about connecting with your community and enjoying your local area.

“We want to make sure that our Balfour Inns are pillars for their regions.”

To sign up for the cost cutting scheme, speak to someone at the bar. The discount begins the same day.