A Worle pub has closed for a £340,000 revamp ahead of it being taken over by two licensees.
The Nut Tree, in Ebdon Road, is owned by Star Pubs & Bars, and will be run by Stuart Mottram and Terry Reynolds, both from Weston.
The refurbishment aims to transform the tired local into a high-quality pub.
It is due to re-open on July 6, creating 15 new jobs.
Chef Terry, who previously ran The Heritage café in Weston, said: “We’ve been looking for a pub for months, and Worle and The Nut Tree ticked all the boxes.
“It’s a beautiful building and we’ve received a phenomenal welcome from local residents.
“Our aim is to create a pub they’ll love and enjoy.”
The pub’s exterior will be renovated, with new signs and lighting added to make the pub an attractive feature in the area.
Stuart and Terry intend to replant the large garden with wildflowers and an apple tree orchard, and will also install an outdoors children’s play area and a patio for alfresco drinking and dining.
The Nut Tree is believed to have been converted from – and named after – a farm in Worle.
Inside, it will be given a contemporary look but its character and heritage will be retained
The original exposed brick walls, old beams and farmhouse fireplace will be retained.
The pub will serve freshly-prepared home-cooked food, focusing on British cuisine and pub favourites, using West Country suppliers where possible.
Terry said: “Our wines will come from Gloucester, fish from Brixham, meat from Weston and fruit and vegetables from Somerset.
“We’ll be making as much as possible at the pub, from the pies and the burgers to the chutneys and the pickles.”
Terry and Stuart want the pub to be known for its quality of beer and food, and will be upgrading the cellar to improve the taste of their pints.
Further plans include running a Sunday quiz night, opening at 10am to serve coffees and upgrading the function room for use by community groups and family occasions.
Star Pubs & Bars operations director Tim Galligan said: “Stuart and Terry have brilliant plans for The Nut Tree, a fantastic reputation for food and a real commitment to the community.”
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