A £228,000 revamp of one of Otley’s oldest pubs will begin next week.

The White Swan, on Boroughgate, is a Grade II Listed building believed to date back more than 250 years.

Building work will begin on Monday, March 23 for a refurbishment that licensee Jason Smith and owners Star Pubs & Bars say will deliver ‘a sympathetic upgrade’.

The scheme will involve:

*Removing the stage to create more seating space and redecorating the walls

*Restoring the wooden floor and giving the bar front and stools a ‘distressed’ look

*Upgrading the toilets and giving the windows and door surrounds a new colour scheme.

The beer garden will also be getting reclaimed picnic benches and barrel tables, a stone terrace, and fixed seating along with new lighting. The new-look pub will be offering a lunchtime menu of traditional pub favourites, plus vegetarian options, from noon to 2pm while its six cask ales are being retained and an improved range of soft drinks introduced.

Mr Smith said: “The White Swan is a friendly community pub where everyone is welcome. Since taking it on a few months ago we’ve attracted more customers as we have improved the services and look of the pub.

“The refurbishment will take it to the next level and make The White Swan more comfortable whilst retaining its traditional character and values.

“I’d like to thank the regulars for making the pub’s landlady, Emma, and myself feel so welcome and look forward to opening the doors again in a few weeks.”

Customers will be able to see the results of the revamp when the inn re-opens during the week after Easter.