AN ICONIC pub in Pilton has recently reopened last after a much-anticipated make-over.

The Crown Inn, an 18th-century coaching inn on the A361 has been taken over by Owain Powell, who gained a following operating a mobile fish and chip shop during the lockdown.

Owain, who has a history in festival catering was bowled over by the response and encouraged to take on the ailing village pub.

Extensive refurbishments and an army of support from villagers have brought the pub, which re-opened earlier this month, into the modern age.

Artists Candace Bahouth, Rowena Draper, and Liam O’Farrell who all live in the village have contributed stunning artworks and decorations.

Candace’s exquisite ceramics can be seen on display in the new restaurant area next to Dorcas Casey’s fantastic fabric plant sculptures.

Professional painters Rowena Draper and Liam O’Farrell both have canvases on the wall of the new venue.

Somerset County Gazette:

Outside the garden has had a make-over with a kids area and a fire pit, and an outdoor smokehouse offering what is described as ‘Somerset soul-food’.

During a brief summer opening last year the pub got rave reviews for its smokehouse offering slow-cooked local meats and a fascinating range of smoked vegetarian dishes too.

Owain said: “Pilton is a great community. It might be known globally for music, but it has another creative side. The Crown will be a great place to have a pint and a delicious dinner and see some interesting art.

“We have a new menu, a new restaurant area, and two hotel rooms. It looks amazing. You won’t recognise it.”

The front bar area is still a cosy space for drinking with two new wood-burning stoves and a newly installed bar.

The back of the pub includes a games room with a pool table and dart board, and an extensive dining area. Upstairs is a brand-new function room that can be hired out.

Owain added: “A pub has been on this site for hundreds of years. It’s important it remains a welcoming space at the centre of village life. Only now it has all mod-cons and a cracking menu.”

For more info visit the pub's website or call Owain at 07969113940 or 01749 890300.