A pub widely regarded as Kent’s most haunted has been taken over by new owners who insist they are not scared of the challenges facing the industry.
Purple Penguin Hospitality (PPH) is now running The Black Horse in Pluckley, near Ashford – its sixth acquisition in just two years.
The 15th century pub, long associated with ghostly sightings, was previously owned by Stonegate Group and leased to business partners Andy Tarry, from Rainham, and Samantha Camburn, of Herne Bay.
But PPH took the helm earlier this month, with experienced landlady Emma Ashby overseeing day-to-day operations, while Ms Camburn is staying on to ease the transition.
The move comes amid a difficult time for the hospitality industry – including tax increases and punters’ changing habits.
Despite this, PPH – led by Louis Borhani, from Staplehurst, and Bob Hopkins, from Bromley – has ambitious plans for the historic site, including the possibility of ghost-themed ales and giving visitors greater access to areas linked to the pub’s haunted past, including the attic.
There are also proposals to introduce accommodation in the garden, potentially through glamping pods or bell tents, tapping into what the company says is clear demand.
Mr Borhani, 38, who also works in recruitment, says diversifying income streams is essential in the difficult hospitality climate.
“The idea is to generate multiple revenue streams within these existing sites, focusing on good-quality hospitality as well as accommodation and events,” he said.
“It’s about creating great experiences that appeal to a wider audience, turning a pub back into a true community space and helping to revitalise the trade.
“A single pub operates on very tight margins. By broadening what we offer, we can safeguard the business, create jobs and invest back into the community.
“There’s such rich history here and plenty of outdoor space. We’ve already had enquiries about staying on site, so glamping is certainly something we’d like to explore.”
Ms Ashby, who previously ran The Plough in Swalecliffe, Whitstable, brings more than three decades of hospitality experience to the role.
She says understanding a village pub’s identity is key.
“When you step into an established village with its own history, every pub already has a character,” she said.
“The role of a landlady is to understand that culture and the nuances of village life. You need to know your customers and build from there.
“We’re aiming to be experience-led – getting the basics right and growing carefully.”
Ms Ashby says investing in staff will be central to the pub’s success.
“It’s about supporting people with the right attitude and willingness to learn,” she added.
“Hospitality can be exhausting, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
“If the team enjoys what they do, that energy spreads across the bar and restaurant. First impressions matter, and meaningful conversations create loyal customers.
“Hospitality doesn’t have to be a stepping stone – it can be a lifelong career.”
PPH’s portfolio also includes The New Flying Horse in Wye, The Rising Sun in Beltinge, Herne Bay, and the Priory Hotel in Dover, which reopened earlier this month.
A major refurbishment is also under way at The Fleur de Lis in Sandwich, where plans have recently been revealed for a golf simulator to capitalise on the area’s strong golfing links.
