SHEPHERD Neame, Britain’s oldest brewer, has acquired one of Thanet’s historic landmark buildings.

The Royal Albion Hotel in Broadstairs town centre was built in 1760 and occupies a seafront position overlooking Viking Bay.

Charles Dickens was a regular guest – inside there is an original letter from the author on display – and each year the hotel takes part in the annual festival celebrating his associations with the town.

The hotel, in Albion Street, has 19 ensuite bedrooms, a bar and restaurant with sea views, and its own terrace overlooking a garden leading onto the beach.

It was run as a successful business by the Roger family for decades.

Nigel Bunting, retail director of Shepherd Neame, said: "Shepherd Neame will look to invest in all areas of the business and continue to provide prime accommodation and catering facilities for locals and tourists in an attractive location."