THE village of Whitley’s historic Pear Tree Inn will reopen its doors this week, following months of careful refurbishment.
Marco Pierre White withdrew from the premises in August last year after a mass staff walk out, and the pub has remained closed.
The traditional country inn with rooms has since been restored, to reflect its original 17th century Wiltshire farmhouse origins.
Its new landlady, Jackie Cosens, and chef, Adrian Jenkins, each bring 25 years of West Country pub experience to the inn. The team previously ran The Three Daggers in the nearby village of Edington.
Jackie said, “The locals have been keeping a keen eye on refurbishment activity – and complimenting the photos we’re sharing on Facebook. It’s great to be giving this beautiful building a new lease of life.
“We cannot wait to open a new chapter for a pub that has been at the heart of the village for centuries.
The Pear Tree Inn will reopen on Friday 9th October – for breakfast, coffees, drinks, lunch and evening meals. The country pub also has eight double en suite bedrooms.
Visitors will be invited to unwind in its relaxed furnishings, in the form of mismatched chairs and Chesterfield sofas. The pub’s entrance bar area has two fireplaces, with space to enjoy a newspaper, coffee and something from the bar menu.
Beyond the flagstoned bar are two dining areas; the garden room, adjacent to a secluded courtyard; and a large open sunroom with exposed beams and an adjacent garden terrace, for al fresco meals on warmer days.
Jackie adds that whether visiting the pub for a drink, something to eat or checking in for the weekend, people can expect a warm welcome. And, in the spirit of any good country local, a biscuit jar awaits four legged visitors.
The new chef, Adrian, says his menu will be British, featuring seasonal flavour and ingredients that are locally grown and reared.
“Next year, the pub’s kitchen garden will influence more of the dishes served,” he explained.
“Regular options on our menu will include south coast mussels with perry and bacon, Jackie’s favourite pulled lamb shoulder and duck shepherd’s pie, and our farmhouse-style Sunday lunches, designed for family and friends to share.”
Hearty options from the bar menu range from grilled Dorset sardines with herby garlic butter, salad and sourdough, to a beef burger with coastal Cheddar, pickled cucumber and skinny chips, to honey and mustard glazed Downland Farm ham, with Paxcroft eggs, chips and salad.
Comforting puddings for autumn and winter include oaty pear crumble with almond ice cream, chocolate & pear cake and plum & cardamom brûlée.
“Our kitchen will also be producing its own jams, chutneys and ice creams,” added Adrian.
The Pear Tree Inn’s well-stocked bar will offer a hand pulled perry, traditional cider, botanical spirits and artisan wines, while beer drinkers can choose from Bath Ales, a selection of craft beers and regional guest ales. Cocktails inspired by the kitchen garden are planned to feature soon too.
The Whitley pub is set in two acres of gardens, with records showing it to have been a working farm in the 1750s. The inn is now owned by Punch Taverns.
More information, directions, menus and booking information can be found on peartreewhitley.co.uk
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