Pub refurbishments: Five of the best

The Morning Advertiser shows you five of the best refurbishments which have hit £3M in overall investment.

Chain Locker, Falmouth, Cornwall

The pub was closed for nine months for a complete renovation and restoration programme after centuries of neglect. At the time of closing, every detail in the historic, 17th-century bar was photographed and catalogued. The items were then replaced once the necessary remedial works and additions - such as the new disabled access lift - were completed. The brewery worked closely with CAD Heritage, the Cornwall Archaeological Unit, the local listed building officer, Falmouth Town Council and Cornwall Council to complete the project

Investment: £2m

Operator: St Austell

Slug & Lettuce, North John Street, Liverpool

The venue is set to opens its doors again after a significant refurbishment on 24 September.  It will be decorated in the signature Slug and Lettuce style with minimal yet elegant décor and a light, bright colour scheme. Open front Birdcage Booths have been introduced that can seat eight to ten customers.  Another new highlight will be the Ciroc Lounge – an intimate downstairs bar with booths and a dance area.  

Investment: £350,000

Operator: Stonegate

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The Castle, Oxford

The main bar has been re-modelled to showcase the pub's original features. The lower level bar has been opened up and will be the main space for entertainment and will also be available for private hire and parties. It is set to reopen on Friday, 22 September, after being closed for a month for the refurbishment. The Castle is Hook Norton’s first site in Oxford city centre and is set over two floors. It will serve a wide range of cask, keg, bottled and canned beers with a focus on local and regional ales.

Investment: Not disclosed

Operator: Tenants Jeremy Morey and Anthony Murray with Hook Norton

The Boot, Bracknell, Berkshire

The venue now boasts a whole new look with additional booths fitted, an improved beer garden with beach huts for alfresco dining, additional natural lighting from glass roofs, new toilets, flooring and furniture throughout as well as an extended trading area. The Boot has also launched a new food menu and offers a wide range of real ales, craft beers, premium spirits and wines.

Investment: £500,000 

Operator: All Our Bars

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Methuen Arms, Corsham, Wiltshire 

The award-winning Methuen Arms sits next to the stately home and grounds of Corsham Court in Wiltshire. It has had a facelift to make it more welcoming to locals and visitors. Gone are the red rooms and in their place is an altogether lighter colour scheme, along with new, soft upholstery and furnishings to create a cosy feel. 

Investment: Not disclosed

Operator: Butcombe Brewery (Liberation Group)