THE Fox and Hounds public house at Farleigh Wick near Bradford on Avon has temporarily closed while a new tenant is found for the premises.

One unhappy customer who turned up last week after having booked a table to eat found the pub in total darkness and the doors locked.

Commenting on Facebook, Karen Bryant said: ”Had a meal booked there tonight but when we arrived the place was in darkness, the tables hadn’t been laid up and no-one answering the phone.

“They only took our booking on Tuesday just gone and they happily took the reservation. No-one rang us to explain the closure either.”

A retail partnership tenancy of the 18th century pub is being offered by London-based Ei Group plc on a five-year lease or with a free of tie option.

A spokesperson for Ei Publican Partnerships said: “We can confirm the Fox and Hounds, Farleigh Wick, is temporarily closed. We would like to reassure the local community that we aim to re-open as soon as possible.”

The Grade 2 listed pub was once a watering hole for travellers between Bath and London. A pub has stood on the spot since the 16th century.

In recent times, it had become a popular and picturesque location for visitors and tourists, as well as locals who enjoyed meals in its three main trading areas.

Anyone wishing to take on the pub will need to find an up-front investment of £13,000 to cover stock and glassware, plus the £34,000 annual rent.