A brand new pub and hotel with 18 bedrooms is set to open at a historic inn this winter.

The Wishful Thinker, which is part of the Elite Pubs chain, will open its doors in Heath Road, Lenham, later this year.

It will be the group’s largest and boast a large dining room, an indoor bar terrace and a stage which will host “the ultimate live experiences”.

The pub will take over from The White Horse. Parts of the building date back as far as 1778.

A spokesman for the chain said: “The Wishful Thinker is sure to live up to expectations and be an outstanding new addition to the Lenham community as well as Elite Pubs.

“The Wishful Thinker, opening winter of 2022, is set to be the perfect cosy pub to enjoy a glass of wine in front of the fire and indulge in your favourite pub food just in time for Christmas.

“Whether you’re local or just passing through, a very warm welcome awaits.”

Founded in 2003, Elite Pubs has 14 venues across Kent and East Sussex, including Junipers in Maidstone High Street and the Dirty Habit in Hollingbourne.

The chain specialises in a menu of locally-sourced food and drink.