A VILLAGE pub which has been closed for three years is set to re-open next week.

The White Hart in Overton has undergone an extensive and sensitive refurbishment by its new owners, The Upham Pub Group, which hopes to re-establish the pub as both a village favourite and a destination for visitors.

The 16th century pub will re-open on June 10 with a new main dining room, private dining area for eight guests, snug and bar area, with reclaimed fittings and furnishings from local flea markets.

It will also offer 12 new en-suite bedrooms with a mix of double and twin, of which seven are in the main building, due to open on June 17, and five outside in newly converted stables, set to open on June 27.

Mirroring the interior of the bar and dining areas, the rooms are individually furnished mixing traditional with quirky design twists including old school desks and art deco furniture.

The White Hart will be managed by Michael Karbowski and Katie Leeke.

The couple join the pub having worked at Hotel De Vere Belton Woods, in Grantham, and managed King Alfred’s Head in Wantage.

Food on offer will be made using regional produce to create a mix of pub classics and refined dining, such as roast belly of Hampshire pork, whole grilled Brixham lemon sole, Turners of Overton pork sausages with mash and St Mary Bourne asparagus with ham and poached egg.

The drinks menu will also offer local tipples, including Upham Ales, wine from Basingstoke based Berry Bros & Rudd and gin from Bombay Sapphire.

The White Hart is the 13th pub to be acquired by the Upham Pub Group.

Chris Phillips, CEO, said: “It wasn’t long after we started looking at breathing life into The White Hart that it became very clear this pub is much cherished by Overton and the surrounding communities. We’ve used all our experience to create what we hope will continue to be a treasured pub that surpasses expectations.

“I know Michael and Kate are looking forward to meeting and serving the Overton community and the many visitors to this stunning area of Hampshire.”