A HISTORIC popular seaside pub which has served punters for 223 years has suddenly closed after a “combination of unexpected breakdowns”.
Fans of The East Kent in Whitstable, Kent, have been mourning the loss of the iconic pub, which first opened in 1802.
The couple had quickly transformed the inn into a gastropub after they took over[/caption]
Fans have laid praise to the food served at the iconic venue[/caption]
The seaside venue has transformed in recent years from being a “wet-only” inn into a bustling gastropub.
Natalie and Andrew Hennessy took over operations of the Shepherd Neame-owned pub in 2018, and it quickly became popular within the community.
Seizing the opportunity to expand, the pair managed to grab The White Horse in Boughton-under-Blean for a brief spell and also opened a wood-fire kitchen in the town last summer.
Despite this growth, the couple had to let go of The East Kent this year.
They had already planned to depart the pub but were forced to make the decision even earlier due to “unexpected breakdowns”.
A statement by the pair on Facebook said: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of The East Kent pub.
“We had decided this would be our last year of trade however we have closed the doors earlier due to a combination of unexpected breakdowns.
“We would like to sincerely thank our incredible team, loyal customers, and the wider community for the years of support.”
The pair also laid praise on the loyal punters who they had served over the years.
They said: “It has been a privilege to serve you all, and we’re grateful for the memories made at The East Kent.
“Thank you again for everything, you’ve all made The East Kent more than just a pub you’ve made it part of the community.”
The venue has said it has reached out to those with further bookings as well as those with deposits and vouchers.
Fans were quick to share their sadness under the post.
One said: “Gutted. Loved this pub.
“This had the best beer garden in Whitstable.”
More than 400 pubs closed in 2024 – as number of UK boozers reaches all-time low
MORE than 400 pubs called last orders last year as the total number of boozers reached an all-time low.
Some 412 in England and Wales — around 34 a month — shut and were demolished or converted into homes, offices and nurseries.
That was a rise of 6.7 per cent compared to the previous year and the sharpest fall in numbers since 2021, when 444 pubs closed their doors.
A total of 2,074 pubs have gone in the past five years, analysis by the commercial real estate experts Altus Group found.
The overall number of boozers in England and Wales, including those vacant and offered to let, fell to a low of 38,989 according to Valuation Office Agency statistics.
Four years ago, the hospitality sector was hit by Covid lockdowns and soaring energy prices.
In 2024, rising costs and cautious spending also hit the sector.
The British Beer and Pub Association reckons pubs face an additional £71 million bill from April when employer National Insurance Contributions rise to 15 per cent.
Another added: “So sad to hear this. Wish you well for the future.
“Thank you for all you did for us a few years ago. Still appreciate it.”
A third said: “Sorry to see this.
“Wishing you all best for the future. A sad loss for the town.”
Others heavily praised the food at the venue, and were equally sad to see it go.
One commented: “Noooo so sad to hear this.
“One of our favourite haunts.
“Always lovely friendly staff and great food especially the pizzas.”
Another said: “Gutted.
“Loved this place – celebrated my 70th in the garden with my family.
“Cracking food and the beer was always in impeccable nick.”
The East Kent pub in Whitstable[/caption]
