An historic pub has been put on the market for £175,000.

The Three Crutches, in Old Watling Street, Strood, is having its leasehold sold by owners Gavin and Dawn Coward so they can focus on their other businesses.

The pair have run the pub, which records show dates back to as early as 1850, for the past two years.

Known locally as 'The Crootches', its often mispronounced name dates back to the 13th century.

It's believed a Templar Knight was shot through the heart at the locations where three roads met - "the three crosses" - and crooches is thought to be an old country term for crosses.

Charles Dickens is also thought to have visited the pub while he lived at Gad's Hill Place in Higham.

The pub caters for 100 guests in its modern restaurant and also includes a five-bedroom accommodation for owners, parking for 50 cars and a beer garden and play area.

It is also used for weddings, wakes, christenings, anniversaries and other events.

Specialist business property advisor Christie & Co. will be in charge of selling the pub.

Agent at the business, James Hughes, said: “The Three Crutches is a newly refurbished pub that is in great condition, whilst also having very high sales and being very profitable.

"I believe it would be good asset for an investor or multiple operator as it is already manager and staff run but could also be converted back to being owner operated in order to increase profitability.”

Read more: All the latest news from Medway

For more quirky and unusual stories, click here.