A18TH century grade II listed pub in Caldicot has been sold.

Ye Olde Tippling Philosopher, on Chepstow Road, was Caldicot’s oldest pub until its closure in October 2011. It has now been sold by Enterprise Inns plc.

Leaseholders called time on the business in 2011 after failing to stave off the effects of falling trade, competition from other pubs and the effects of the smoking ban. A planning application by Enterprise Inns was approved in July by Monmouthshire’s planning committee for the conversion of the pub and function room to two residential units.

The plans included four semi-detached houses to be built on the previous car park and the third dwelling to encompass the three remaining walls of the barn and small stable.

An Enterprise Inn spokeswoman said: “We can confirm that we completed a sale of Ye Olde Tippling Philosopher at the start of October and the freehold of the property has now passed to the purchaser.”