A pub left abandoned for five years has sold at auction for almost £800,000 and could be “totally redeveloped”.

The former Lighthouse Inn in Capel-le-Ferne, between Folkestone and Dover, is now under new ownership after going under the hammer.

The auctioneer for the site, Kevin Gilbert, says the building could be turned into apartments, new homes or demolished entirely.

The derelict pub which boasts sea views sold for £797,000, almost £200,000 above the freehold guide price.

In 1840 The Lighthouse Inn, as it is known today, was in two parts - Vineyard Lodge, which was used as a wine and ale house, and Capel Lodge where travellers would rest during their journey.

Mr Gilbert believes “many people” will be interested to see what happens to the site.

“This large property with wonderful sea views now requires improvement. It might be converted into flats or knocked down and totally redeveloped, as long as all necessary consents are obtainable,” he said.

“Outside is an area of hardstanding as well as a garden. Builders and developers were very interested and that resulted in a good price being realised.

“It was a popular pub when it closed, and many people locally will be interested in what happens to it.”

Over the years, the building has had various names and was run as a home for psychiatric patients, a convalescing home and a country club.

But in February 1998, it was refurbished and opened under the new name of The Lighthouse.

Now, the site is in a sad state of affairs with weeds growing in the garden and car park, paintwork left untreated and signage removed from the building.

In July 2019 the pub closed for good following a reported dispute with the landlord.

The building includes two cellars, function rooms and several en-suite rooms on the first floor. It also has a garden area.

Last year, villagers called for the “eyesore” to be returned to its former glory as a community asset.

Resident Martin Ingrouille, who has lived in the village for seven years, told KentOnline at the time he felt someone should be able to make a success of it as it is “such a prime spot”.