Northey Arms in Box given food hygiene rating after revamp

The Northey Arms, which sits just back from the A4 on the outskirts of Box, reopened on November 20 after closing for nearly two months during an extensive renovation project.

Just a few weeks later, on December 14, the prominent village pub was visited by food hygiene inspectors from Wiltshire Council’s food safety team.

After the inspection, the venue was handed a perfect five-out-of-five rating.

Food and drink establishments across the county are graded on a number of key categories during food hygiene inspections, including their handling of food, the cleanliness and condition of their facilities and building, and their management of food safety.

The Northey Arms was deemed to have ‘Good’ standards in all three of these categories, leading to them being given the highest possible score.

The pub during its refurbishment (Image: Newsquest)

Since temporarily closing its doors to the public in October, the pub has been transformed through refurbishments to both the inside and the outside of the building.

This included a complete makeover for the bar, snug and dining areas in the style of an “elegant” modern country house.

Traditional wood panelled walls, window seats, rugs and heritage wallpapers now feature, creating a variety of “cosy and elegant drinking and dining areas.”

All 13 of the pub’s bedrooms have also been refurbished and remodelled, while a new food menu and fresh drink options have also been introduced.

This new menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients while serving up a combination of “ elevated hearty pub and modern classics.”

Staff at the venue said they “couldn’t be happier” with the results of the project.

Inside the Northey Arms (Image: Butcombe Pubs & Inns)

The pub is managed by Butcombe Pubs & Inns, a part of the Liberation Group.

After its reopening, Jayson Perfect, the managing director of pubs and inns for the Liberation Group, spoke of the importance of renovating the historic building.

He said: “The Northey Arms is a beautiful building with a rich history. 

“This refurbishment has enhanced its much-loved features and restored those that have been lost over time – it looks incredible inside and out.

“We’ve worked our magic in the kitchen too with the introduction of new menus. 

“We’re sure our guests will enjoy the new look and feel, alongside our fresh new award-winning food and drink offering.”