A 16th-century pub and inn is closing its doors at the end of the month.

The Ostrich in Castle Acre is back on the market with pub group Greene King just 24 months since reopening. 

Aoife Halliday and Ant Ciavarella took the premises over in late 2021 and extensively renovated the interior to bring it "back to life". 

Watton & Swaffham Times: Aoife Halliday and Ant Ciavarella took over the Ostrich in 2021 and fully renovated itAoife Halliday and Ant Ciavarella took over the Ostrich in 2021 and fully renovated it (Image: Greene King)

Greene King is now seeking experienced new landlords to take the reins.

According to Greene King, the site would suit a "food-led" operator who can take advantage of events and knows how to "maximize community offers".

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Lee Jarvis, business development manager at Greene King, said: "The pub has a great reputation and sits nicely in this semi-affluent village.

"The perfect set-up would be a management couple with both front and back of house experience, that know Norfolk well and have experience in letting rooms and food.

Watton & Swaffham Times: The Ostrich is on the market with Greene King after two years The Ostrich is on the market with Greene King after two years (Image: Newsquest)

"Local knowledge is key in the low season and experience of letting rooms will also be a major benefit."

News of the pub's closure was met with disappointment by locals online who were saddened to hear another pub in the area was shutting its doors. 

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In January, the Windmill Inn in nearby Necton announced its closure and ceased trading after 16 years under its last owners. 

Some members of the public worry that the closure of the Ostrich and Windmill will leave a "dearth" of community hubs for people to visit in the area. 

Annual rent for the Ostrich is £38,500 with a forecasted operator turnover of £586,557.