A COUNTRY inn chain has officially opened its seventh venue.

Invited guests enjoyed canapes and drinks at the opening on Sunday of Bel & The Dragon at The Swan, in Kingsclere.

The inn offers nine en-suite bedrooms and an extensive selection of fine wine and British food in the restaurant which seats 50.

Ronnie Kimbugwe, group head chef, has hand-crafted a menu using local British produce available in the area, creating modern adaptations of simple classics, such as sustainable fish pie and English veal bolognaise.

There is also a rotisserie menu including dishes such as roasted suckling pig.

The inside of the venue has been designed by Nicola Harding, who has created a homely interior with simple, classic surroundings such as books and hand-picked antiques.

There is also a private dining room designed to cater for more intimate gatherings.

Ollie Vigors, founder and director of Longshot Country Inns, said: “Having grown up in Kingsclere, I am delighted to be part of the team responsible for bringing Bel & The Dragon to the stunning setting that is The Swan in Kingsclere.”

Fellow founder and director Joel Cadbury added: “We are delighted to be opening Bel & The Dragon at The Swan in Kingsclere.

“We have restored this stunning historic building to its former glory, so that it is once again the heart of the community.

“Our focus is on seasonal and local produce, as well as using the best of British ingredients.”

The Swan is not the first north Hampshire village pub that has attracted the attention of the country inn chain.

It took over the running of The George, in High Street, Odiham, last year.