A Burford hotel which has undergone a transformation is set to welcome back the public following a makeover.

And locals are looking forward to seeing it - despite questioning the 'history' behind the new name.

The former Cotswold Gateway Hotel on the Burford roundabout has been renamed The Prince of Burford.

A new crest will feature a golden lion which was adopted as the town’s seal from its founder Robert Fitzhamon’s coat of arms when Burford was granted a charter in 1090.

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But one resident posted on the hotel's Facebook page: "While we're all very excited about your reopening, may I ask a question that ALL the locals are asking??? I assume I won't get an answer, but here goes...

"Why on earth have you chosen the name 'Prince of Burford'?

"There is not, and HAS not ever actually been a Prince of Burford - we who live here KNOW this as fact!!!"

She says she originally thought the hotel was becoming an Indian restaurant "great in itself!"

But she adds: "Upon learning that you are NOT in fact doing so, I became even more befuddled."

She continues: "Had you chosen the 'Duke of Burford', you probably would have had the support of the town, as we are actually quite proud of Charles II and Nelle Gwynne announcing their son as the Duke of Burford from the George Inn.

"Imagine the confusion with foreign tourists?? Oh no, there was never a Prince of Burford, we just made the whole thing up!!"

The Prince of Burford said the name was a nod to the history of the building.

Oxford Mail:

They posted: "We wanted to change the name to signify the start of a new, exciting chapter. This beautiful building has, in the past, been referred to as the jewel in the crown of Burford so we thought it apt to continue the regal reference."

The pub, which is flinging open its doors in two weeks' time, has undergone a significant transformation and has a classic Cotswold country look and feel.

Downstairs is a purpose-built bar in a newly designed ‘casual’ area with snug and reception area.

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All 16 guest rooms and ensuite bathrooms have been redesigned and there is a large area of new decking and planters outside plus a timber pergola for alfresco drinking and dining.

The menu will feature locally sourced produce, seasonal ingredients and elevated pub classics with a twist. 

But the owners say the hotel will remain very much a ‘proper pub’ for locals.

Oxford Mail:

Already taking bookings for Christmas, events such as wreath making and cheese and wine are coming soon.

And the investment means managers Butcombe Pubs & Inns, part of Liberation Group, are currently looking for staff.

 

 

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This story was written by Miranda Norris, she joined the team in 2021 and covers news across Oxfordshire as well as news from Witney.

Get in touch with her by emailing: Miranda.Norris@newsquest.co.uk. Or find her on Twitter: @Mirandajnorris

Profile: Miranda Norris Journalists news from the Oxford Mail

Profile: Miranda Norris Journalists news from the Oxford Mail