Popular pub, Horse and Groom re-opens in Bourton on the Hill

After being closed for two weeks, the Horse and Groom in Bourton on the Hill has reopened to the public. 

The pub is the only eatery in the village and has been described as a community asset by a parish councillor.

The Horse and Groom (Image: The Horse and Groom)

Nathan Eades, the new landlord at the Horse and Groom, said: "We have only been open for three days but so far trade has been solid. 

"We haven't made any seismic changes, all we've really done is add a new lick of paint. 

"We have also tried to tidy it up and dump as much love into the pub as we can. 

"We've added some cool new racing memorabilia and changed the table layout."

The pub has been in the village since the 1700's (Image: The Horse and Groom)

Mr Eades has also been the landlord of The Halfway in Kineton since February 2023. 

The Horse and Groom reopened after two weeks on June 28.

Mr Eades continued: "Not much needed changing to be honest. 

"What we do at The Halfway is to be as hospitable as possible, it's worked for us there and hopefully it will work for us at the Horse and Groom. 

"Unfortunately the pub has been going downhill since it was sold three years ago. 

"It's always had good food and its position is solid as it's next to a B road, so we knew the footfall was there, so we have backed ourselves.

"We have good wine and a good environment and we have been highly encouraged by what we have seen so far."

The opening came on a busy weekend for the hospitality industry with England playing Slovakia for a place in the quarter-finals of the Euro's in Germany.

Mr Eades said: "We are not reliant on that side of the business but we did show the match. 

"Events such as that show that we are a community asset. 

"We want local people to have confidence and come in with their friends and family. 

"It's been a good first few days and hopefully it's only going to get better."

The Horse and Groom has routes dating back to the 1700's, with strong links to horses and horse racing. 

(Image: The Horse and Groom)

Chris Priest, chairman of Bourton on the Hill Parish Council, said: "It is fabulous to see Nathan and Liam partnering with Donnington Brewery to breathe fresh life into the pub. 

"Having a thriving pub is a vital part of our community and to welcome visitors.

"Last Friday the pub was packed for its opening night.  

"It felt as though the whole village wanted to celebrate the re-opening.  

"A drink with friends and neighbours, and excellent food, what better way to start the weekend?

"We welcome Nathan and his team to the village and look forward to many more visits to the pub on the hill."

The pub has a spacious beer garden and an amazing view towards Moreton.