THE Willow Tree in Winchester has re-opened following a £200,000 refurbishment.

The pub, which closed just before Christmas, reopened on Friday, March 3 under new management having been taken over by Iain Warren and Jenny Small, who run the Queen Inn. The refurbishment was funded by owner Greene King Pub Partners.

Outside, the pub’s garden, by the River Itchen, has been upgraded. The garden now has an all-new patio and covered pergola alongside updated decking making it the place to eat and drink outside when the sun is shining.

Hampshire Chronicle: The garden at The Willow Tree (photo: Greene King)The garden at The Willow Tree (photo: Greene King) (Image: Greene King)SEE ALSO: Winchester pub to reopen in March following refurbishment

The pub signage, roofing and external decorations have also all been updated.

Meanwhile, inside the pub has a brand-new back bar and toilets, as well as an updated interior and fixtures and fittings to create a welcoming and traditional look and feel.

Hampshire Chronicle: One of the bars at The Willow Tree (credit: Greene King)One of the bars at The Willow Tree (credit: Greene King) (Image: Greene King)Iain and Jenny ran The Queen Inn as managers for more than eight years before taking on the pub business themselves. With The Willow Tree, they hope to use their local knowledge of Winchester to emulate the same success.

The pair said: “We’re thrilled to be taking on The Willow Tree.

“As locals ourselves, we know The Willow Tree for its exceptional pub garden and when the opportunity came to take on the pub, we just had to grab it!”

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The Willow Tree will provide a similar menu and drinks to the Queen Inn. This will include quality, traditional pub food and a large drinks selection featuring cask ales and refreshing drinks to be enjoyed in the pubs excellent garden.

Hampshire Chronicle: Iain and Jenny behind the bar (credit: Greene King)Iain and Jenny behind the bar (credit: Greene King) (Image: Greene King)Rob Ayling, business development manager for Greene King Pub partners, said: “Having worked closely with Iain and Jenny for a number of years now, I am delighted for them. In their hands, The Willow Tree has a bright future.

“They know what the people of Winchester want from a pub and how to deliver it.”