ONE of Old Town’s most historic pubs is to re-open later this month following a £300,000 refurbishment, creating up to seven new jobs in the process. The Goddard Arms in High Street closed yesterday and is set to re-launch on Wednesday, March 26 after a 16 day makeover.

The grade II listed building, which has been trading as a pub since 1820 and once housed Swindon Town Hall, is being sympathetically refurbished to update the building, yet it will retain all its existing period features.

Externally, ivy cladding the red brick frontage will be cut back, new sleek black and gold signage will be hung and the garden and car park will be spruced up. Inside, the bar and restaurant areas will enjoy a top to toe makeover.

General manager George Hoare and his team will be hosting a champagne and canapé reception for invited guests and local businesses to take a sneak first look at the pub from 5pm on March 26 before doors open at 7pm. “The Goddard Arms is such an iconic building in the Old Town and so the refurbishment has created quite an air of excitement”, said Mr Hoare.

“We know it won’t disappoint and we can’t wait to show off the pub’s new stylish look to our customers. Whilst people will notice a big change we’ve been very careful to ensure we retain all the characterful period features.”

In addition to a new menu the pub will offer a regularly rotating selection of national and locally brewed cask ales, as well as an extensive choice of wines and cocktails.

Book a table or hotel room by calling the pub on 01793 619090.