The “heart” of Bourton has re-opened following a decade-long closure.

The Old New Inn, connected to the model village, has re-opened following a three-year renovation project costing £600,000.

The Grade II listed building will now feature a bar and restaurant alongside the hotel, creating 10 jobs in the process.

Andrew and Julie Lund-Yates bought the hotel and model village in 2018 and have been quick to restore the hotel and dining operation, which had been closed for a decade prior to their arrival.

Mr Lund-Yates said: “We are incredibly excited to welcome diners back into The Old New Inn as we share the realisation of our vision for The Tap Room Bar and Restaurant.

“When we purchased the Hotel and Model Village back in 2018, we knew there was huge potential to breathe new life into what was a rather tired property – we’ve been told that it really felt like the heart of the village had stopped beating when the doors closed more than a decade ago.

“The Tap Room Bar and Restaurant has been re-awakened and is now brimming with character and an incredible food and beverage offering, prepared and served by our fantastic new team.”

Cotswold Journal: The bar and restaurant’s has been completely redesigned to offer a "cosy and inviting ambience"The bar and restaurant’s has been completely redesigned to offer a "cosy and inviting ambience"

Whilst the model village has remained open throughout, the hotel reopened in 2019 before work began on refurbishing the restaurant and bar area.

The menu has been put together by Balanced Food Co. with head chef Jason Hyatt bringing 20 years of experience to the kitchen.

Meanwhile, Alex Szabo joins as food and beverage manager, having won numerous pub of the year awards whilst at The Five Alls in Lechlade.

The Old New Inn will also be supporting a number of local producers, such as Cacklebean Eggs from Stow and Dolcetti ice cream made in Cirencester.

The Inn’s garden is also home to two beehives, meaning guests will soon be able to enjoy honey made on-site.

Cotswold Journal: A number of craft and cask ales will be available from the new barA number of craft and cask ales will be available from the new bar

Mr Lund-Yates added: “Partnering with the Balanced Food Co. allows our joint ethos of provenance of food, nutrition, and environmental impacts to be showcased and highlighted within our menu.

“We can’t wait to welcome guests back into the venue to showcase the exciting and sympathetic changes and allow them to experience the freshest, in-season produce and local ingredients across our menus.”

The Old New Inn on Rissington Road is now accepting bookings which can be booked online at theoldnewinn.co.uk/tap-room or by calling 01451 820467.