A family-run pub which mysteriously closed is set to reopen after nine months vacant.

The Ship Inn at Conyer Creek on the Saxon Shore Way between Sittingbourne and Faversham, will be opening its doors again this month.

The 18th-century free house shut in December unexpectedly but has now been taken on by first-time landlord Harry Roberts, who has worked in the hospitality industry for a decade.

He said: “The pub should be up and running in a couple of weeks – and definitely this month.

“We’re excited to see the locals and I look forward to seeing them and meeting and giving them their space back where they can all meet up together.”

After getting the keys four weeks ago, the 28-year-old says the pub has been undergoing a cellar refit, but the building is in “beautiful condition”.

He now plans to bring in chefs with Michelin star experience, with a focus on “locally sourced food”.

Before taking on this new challenge, Harry worked as both a chef, front-of-house and a manager for various pubs in the county, such as The New Inn, Sandwich.

“I thought the next step was to take on my own pub,” he added.

The landlord, who lives in Faversham, now looks forward to welcoming punters back.

He said: “Everyone’s been very supportive, so we just want to get the balance right for the community.”

The Ship Inn Conyer closed suddenly in December 2023, despite promoting events up until its closure.

The freehold of the property later went on the market at a guide price of £595,000.

The pub was once a landing post for smugglers as it was an ideal place for dropping off contraband due to its remote location.

The Ship Inn, which was originally a bakery and blacksmiths, then became an alehouse in 1802.