A village pub has unexpectedly shut leaving customers saddened by last-minute cancellations.

The Tyler’s Kiln near Canterbury brought the shutters down on Tuesday, having reopened under new management last year.

Pictures showing the inside of the empty tavern in Tyler Hill have emerged, while would-be customers lamented the loss.

One woman whose family were set to eat there on Thursday revealed they had “received a phone call saying they have closed for good”.

Responding to her social media post, Michelle Godden said “another good pub” had disappeared, while Karla Tabony added: “That’s so sad, such a gorgeous pub.”

Sarah Pearson empathised with those missing out, saying: “Considering it seems to have been shut every time we passed for [the] last few weeks they could have given you more notice.”

“It’s pretty inside, but I must admit we were disappointed in the food last time we were there,” remarked Lynn Morris.

Libo Stevens added: “That’s awful news, it was always packed when I went in.”

No reason has been given for the closure, which comes amid a tumultuous time for the pub, having closed in March last year, just 12 months after its grand reopening.

Allister Collins bought The Tyler’s Kiln in 2012 before launching it in 2015 following a major refurbishment.

It quickly became a key addition to the village, with Allister keen to ensure it “served the community”.

But it was hit hard by Covid and remained closed for 18 months, having not reopened when restrictions were lifted.

Villagers were left in the dark about what was happening with the venue, with Mr Collins revealing little about its future.

But in 2022, locals were relieved when it was announced Kathton House, which previously had a top-rated restaurant in Sturry, would be taking on the pub.

However bosses were forced to shut its doors the following year.

But soon after new manager Byron Hayter revealed hopes to win back villagers, but keep the cash-free policy brought in by the previous tenants.

They hoped to woo diners with “honest pub food” and good beer, and reopened the pub months later before closing again.

Tyler’s Kiln bosses have been contacted for comment.