The pub, at the Strand, was originally built in the 16th century to store contraband seized from smugglers.

It is now a heavily beamed, old English inn situated alongside the river estuary amongst the former warehouses which now trade as galleries and antique shops.

The Ship has been successfully run, for the past four years by Sandra Wallace and has provided a meeting place for a number of Rye groups, including Rye Lions.

But now Sandra is moving back to her native Australia and the Ship has been sold though Maidstone based property agents Chrisitie and Co.

Taking over the lease is Karen Northcote, who has worked in the food and drinks business for many high profile companies over the past 15 years.

Under Karen, The Ship will be specialising in traditional, English, organic and locally-sourced food.

The Ship was sold for an undisclosed figure after Christie and Co sought £99,950 for the leasehold interest.

The premises are held on a 20-year lease from Enterprise Inns, which commenced in June 1996 with a current annual rent of £55,000.