A family-run pub which mysteriously closed has been put on the market for nearly £600,000.

Leisure property specialist Fleurets has revealed that the Ship Inn at Conyer, near Teynham, has been put up for sale by private clients after its lease came to an end.

Last month, a notice from owners Swale Marina appeared on the door of the freehouse announcing it had ceased trading.

The 18th-century pub was once a popular place for customers to eat and drink near the water at Conyer Creek on the Saxon Shore Way between Sittingbourne and Faversham.

Events were being promoted on the Ship’s Facebook page right up until its closure – including a 1980s karaoke night on November 25 – but there was no announcement about the pub ceasing trade.

Both Swale Marina and the Ship Inn were contacted for comment but neither have responded.

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

Fleurets is advertising the listing as “boasting a unique rural village setting” that is “a favourite and special pub in the area”.

It has been fully refurbished and is described as being “well presented throughout” and “rewarding customers with views over the Swale Marina and creek”.

The refurb saw the dining areas extended and the kitchen upgraded.

A Fleurets spokesman added: “This has increased the trading potential meaning there is very little need for any further investment.

“This is a fantastic, unique opportunity to continue successfully serving the local communities, as well as customers from further afield drawn to this lovely unspoilt coastal area, whether by land or water.”

In addition to the trade areas, there is also owner’s living accommodation complete with a double bedroom.

Simon Bland, senior associate for Fleurets, added: “I’m super pleased to be handling the sale of the Ship Inn.

“In my view, it is quite simply one of the best privately owned free houses in Kent and utterly unique both in its setting and character.

“We’re expecting plenty of inquiries and looking forward to finding a great new owner for it – no doubt they will have fallen in love!”

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 blacksmith, then became an alehouse in 1802.

Viewings are by appointment through Fleurets. Call 0207 280 4700 or email london@fleurets.com.