In Hollingbourne, plans to transform part of The Dirty Habit pub into a bed and breakfast have received approval from local authorities.
Plans to change part of The Dirty Habit pub into a bed and breakfast have been approved. Elite Pubs submitted the application to convert the upper floors of the pub in Hollingbourne.
The proposal includes seven bedrooms, each with en-suites. Five bedrooms will be on the first floor, and two will be on the second. The plans also involve reconfiguring staircases, adding an extension at the back of the pub, and making minor changes to parking.
The applicant stated, “The intention is that the introduction of bed and breakfast accommodation will help to ensure that this rural public house continues to be economically viable.” They added that the changes will allow the pub to operate as both a restaurant and accommodation.
The plans were first submitted to Maidstone council in 2024 but were withdrawn and resubmitted in July this year. The Dirty Habit was severely damaged by a fire in October 2022, which destroyed the roof and blew out windows.
At the height of the fire, a dozen fire engines responded to the scene on Upper Street, near Pilgrims Way. The road was closed, and nearby homes were evacuated, but there were no injuries reported.
Restoration work on the Grade II-listed pub has been ongoing since the fire. Elite Pubs had initially planned to start repairs before Christmas 2022, but this was delayed to summer last year. Recently, scaffolding that had been in place for years was removed, and work has shifted to the interior.
A spokesperson for Elite Pubs expressed excitement about the progress, saying, “It’s been a long journey to get here, so we couldn’t be happier to see things moving forward once more.” They aim to reopen The Dirty Habit in spring 2026.
The pub has been a significant part of the village’s history, with its origins dating back to the 11th century. It served as a resting place for pilgrims heading to Canterbury and was known for brewing cider by monks. The pub has had several name changes over the years, with its current name, The Dirty Habit, adopted around 20 years ago.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 2022 | Fire severely damages The Dirty Habit pub |
| 2024 | Initial plans submitted to Maidstone council |
| July 2023 | Plans resubmitted for approval |
| Spring 2026 | Expected reopening of The Dirty Habit |
