Picture special: A look inside the revamped Hare & Hounds pub in Speen after seven-month refurbishment by Red Lion Holdings

A Newbury pub has reopened after a seven-month refurbishment.

The 17th-century Georgian Hare & Hounds, on Bath Road, in Speen, opened its doors again at the end of last month after its revamp into a 30-bed coaching inn and pub.

General manager Andrew Charlton said he had been delighted to open the doors to the residents of Speen for a special advance preview night after the extensive renovations.

The coaching inn rooms, private dining, pub and restaurant officially opened on Friday, January 21, and bookings are now being taken.

Pub investment group Red Lion Holdings said the new-look local would bring up to 80 new jobs to the area.

The company is also working closely with Newbury Catering College to “offer a number of apprenticeship opportunities, as they continue to invest in, and support further education and qualification within the hospitality sector”.

The revamped pub includes 30 boutique bedrooms in four separate blocks, situated in and around the pub site and all named after the equestrian world or historic dignitaries.

There are also a number of dog-friendly, interconnecting, accessible and truckle bed family rooms available.

The Barn dining room has also undergone a complete overhaul and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Mr Charlton said guests should “expect farm-to-table menus that roll with the seasons and champion our local farming and produce heroes”.

At the bar craft ales, artisan gins, an extensive wine list and cocktails are also served.

There are now also two private dining rooms that can accommodate up to 12 guests, as well as a covered garden terrace for alfresco dining and summer gatherings.

For more details visit www.hareandhoundsnewbury.co.uk