Lease of The Albion café in Newington High Street, near Sittingbourne on the market after closure
Published: 15:22, 25 October 2023
Updated: 15:29, 25 October 2023
A popular high street café which closed in the summer has gone on the market.
The Albion in Newington, Sittingbourne stopped trading in June.
It had been in business for a little more than a year having opened in May 2022.
However, a lease for five-bedroom property, which was spotted on Zoopla earlier this month, has now also been listed with Rightmove with agents, Haart, for £2,300 per month.
As well as having a cellar, the site also features a kitchen, bathroom, garden and two lounge rooms.
Current homeowner and former boss of the café, Umar Abanifi, said: "It’s been challenging to say the least, but I'm very positive about the future.
"Regarding the building, it’s on the market for rent, [so] looking for the right opportunity to present itself.
"We are open for various options, but can’t say for sure at this stage."
When open, the village tea room seated more than 30 guests on eight tables following a £40,000 investment.
It sold the likes of cakes, scones and lunch meals such as baguettes and omelettes.
Speaking previously, the 54-year-old added: "Closing The Albion was not an easy decision for myself and my wife to make.
“I bought the building two years ago to try and transform a derelict high street.
“What we created was something uncommon in the modern hospitality industry these days.
“Our business ethos was to serve our community and provide a local hub post-covid for people in Newington, and the surrounding villages, to meet and enjoy quality and affordable food in this unique, historic and tranquil setting."
After its closure was confirmed, the eatery was met with a raft of support.
Speaking online, one person said: “In a short space of time you became the heart of our community.
“Every visit was such a pleasure with tasty food, friendly staff and the loveliest welcome from Umar.”
Another person added: “It’s such a loss to the village, but thank you for the amazing service and food we’ve had since you’ve been open – you will be missed.”
More by this author
Joe Harbert