A village pub thought to have been built by Jane Austen’s brother is up for sale. 

The Rose and Crown, in Upper Farringdon near Alton, dates back to 1810, and is believed to have been built as an ale house by Edward Austen Knight. 

Knight was the High Sheriff of Kent and the brother of novelist Jane Austen, and towards the end of her life provided her with a house in nearby Chawton, which is now the Jane Austen Museum. 

The pub itself is a refurbished and extended brick-built property spanning two floors.

Inside, there is a front bar area which can host 30 customers, and retains period features such as a beamed ceiling, exposed brick walls and a brick fireplace, while the restaurant seats 34 customers and the modern garden/events room hosts an additional 34. 

Also on this level are a trade kitchen, a walk-in refrigerator, customer toilets, a staff WC, and access to a mechanically cooled beer cellar. 

Upstairs, there is private accommodation consisting of three double bedrooms, a bathroom and an office. 

Outside, there are large trade gardens fit for 80 covers and a side patio for 40, as well as a car park. 

The pub sits within the South Downs National Park and is surrounded by Hampshire countryside. 

The Rose and Crown is being sold freehold by estate agent Fleurets on behalf of New Dawn Pubs for a price of £995,000 (not including VAT). 

Mark Robson, Managing Director commented: “The Rose & Crown is a destination food led pub with a great reputation that is well supported by the local community.

"I am certain that whoever acquires the pub will inherit an invested, vibrant and thriving business with a promising future and opportunity to expand and develop further.”

Nick Earee, Divisional Director of Fleurets South, added: “We will be holding viewings so please contact us at your earliest opportunity to secure your appointment."