The Queen Phillippa bed and breakfast and bistro is to be sold.

Owners Adam Ervin and Danny Pain have put the 18-bedroom former pub at Queenborough up for sale for £679,000.

Details were published this week by Sheerness estate agent House which described it as an “exciting opportunity.”

The two owners bought the rundown pub for £210,000 in January 2014 and spent £170,000 converting it. It opened in August 2014 and now includes a popular restaurant.

If they get what they are asking for, it will represent a profit of nearly £300,000 over three years.

The premises are to be sold freehold and include a professional kitchen and a large outside seating area at the rear overlooking Queenborough Harbour.

The property is within walking distance of Queenborough railway station and one of Kent’s top 10 B&Bs according to Tripadvisor. It boasts an AA 4-star rating. Rooms typically cost £99 a night.

Andries van den Berg of House said: “This truly is a unique opportunity to acquire an established and sought-after business with potential to expand and develop the business further. Viewings will be held strictly by appointment.”

He added: “We understand the business has a substantial turnover with a good profit margin. This will be discussed further with qualified purchasers.”

The news was greeted with disbelief by users on Facebook. Kim Bronger wrote: “I’m shocked that it’s up for sale.”

Sara Peters said: “So shocked. Great people! Don’t go, it won’t be the same.”

Susie Kew added: “Why? Why? Why? Best thing to happen to Queenborough in a long time. Shocked.”

And Margaret Keen wrote: “I’m in shock! I feel quite proud that Queenborough’s got the Phillippa.”

Sue Lipscombe added: “Very sad. I was there this week. It was lovely.”

Les Tucker said: “Wow, really? I’m surprised. It’s a great place with great staff.”

Jeff Banks wrote: “Great shame. I always stay there when visiting the Island. They will be hard to replace. So helpful.”

No one from the Queen Phillippa was available for comment.