TIMBRELL’S Yard in Bradford on Avon will open its doors to the public next week after taking nearly two years to complete following a £1.5m investment from Draco Pubs Company.

The old Riverside Inn pub was bought last year and was renamed after Draco discovered a 19th Century painting of the site by Samuel Spode, with the same name.

Over the years the building has been used as a house, a club and briefly a library, but only became a pub in the 1980s.

The inn will now accommodate 14 bedrooms, a bar, a restaurant, a function room and a courtyard with outdoor seating.

Among the staff is former St Laurence School pupil, Jon Hutchings, who has returned to the town to uphold the role of general manager.

He said: “I moved to Bradford on Avon when I was 16 and went to St Laurence School for two years before moving to Bath. It is nice coming back to see some of the faces stay the same but also to see how it has developed in the process.

“To have a venue like this come to Bradford on Avon, and not just the town but also to the surrounding areas and villages is just great news. It is sort of perfect for everyone and any occasion as you can come for a morning coffee, some lunch, an evening meal or an overnight stay.”

The project has been the largest of its kind for the company which has restored two Somerset pubs in the past.

Executive chef Tom Blake will now oversee the kitchen who has previously worked at River Cottage.

Rob Greacen, Managing Director, Draco Pub Company said: “Bradford on Avon is a very special place and we’ve been really overwhelmed by how helpful everyone has been. These buildings have had a hard life and this has made their restoration a challenge for our team.

“As with The Swan, Wedmore and The White Hart, Somerton, our aim is to provide first class food and service in a beautiful, relaxed space that retains its charm and character. I think that we have done it again but it’s up to the people of Bradford on Avon to judge.”

The interior of the 14 bedrooms include period features of the building and have been designed by interior designer Ali Guttridge and Simple Simon. The prices start from £90 and range in size from small to superior.

The public will be able to wine and dine at Timbrell’s Yard from Wednesday. For more information, visit www.timbrellsyard.com