A pub on the banks of the Grand Union Canal is set to close for more than two months whilst a major £475,000 refurbishment is carried out.
The investment at The Bear on the Barge on Moorfield Road between Harefield and Denham will transform into a bar and restaurant being renamed The River Garden.
The investment is being undertaken by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and local pub operators Arusha Group.
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Work began last week with the newly refurbished pub scheduled to open in early December, creating 30 new jobs.
A stretch tent for all-weather eating and drinking and an adult games area are planned for the pub’s 600-seater rear garden in time for next summer.
The building will be repainted and adding new lighting, signage will be added to the outside along with a new patio with café-style furniture.
A total revamp of the interior will keep all its character whilst making it more contemporary and stylish.
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The building will be opened up to create additional seating for 50 people and have a separate bar and dining areas as well as a new private dining room.
Features such as an open fire and wood floors will be retained and restored and an overhaul of the kitchen will enable the pub to offer a wide choice food, which will use locally sourced ingredients.
The all-day menu will include traditional pub favourites, Sunday lunches, pizzas made in the venue’s own wood-fired pizza and an a la carte dining menu.
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New managers Julie Lutynska and Maurizio Cimo say they would like The River Garden to be “an asset to the community”.
The pub will provide meeting space for local organisations and are keen to host fundraisers for local charities.
The duo also wants to maintain the venue’s historic links with walkers, cyclists, canal users and dog walkers by serving hot drinks throughout the day with afternoon available.
Dogs are welcome with the pub offering doggy treats, ice cream and water.
Julie said: “The pub is well-known, and there’s lots of interest in its future.
“The garden is already fantastic.
“The refurbishment will give The River Garden a beautiful new look to match.
“With celebrating in pubs and restaurants heavily restricted or off the cards altogether last Christmas, people are desperate to celebrate out this year.
“We’re busy planning all kinds of events to make the 2021 festive season extra special when we open.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone.”
Star Pubs & Bars’ area manager James Hulston added: “We’re delighted to join forces with the Arusha Group to invest in such a high-profile site.
“The garden has proved a lifeline for many throughout the pandemic.
“The refurbishment will give people lots more reasons to visit, whether they’re after a family meal, early evening cocktails or a special occasion celebration.
“Julie and Maurizio’s plans are really exciting.
“We wish them all the best!”
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