A long-standing south Essex pub is set to re-open in time for the Christmas season with a fresh look after a £433,000 refurbishment.

The Quart Pot, in Runwell, has been fully refreshed throughout with a revamped bar, new fixed seating areas, lighting, revitalised entertainment offerings and even a new function room available for events.

The dog-friendly pub dates back to at least 1777 and is most famous for hosting the first meeting of the community's Salvation Army group 130 years ago.

It is set to reopen next Thursday, November 30, after the short closure with new festive dishes added to the menu, from a hearty turkey and ham pie and glazed pigs in blankets to a sweet festive sundae.

At the helm of the well-loved Quart Pot and ready to begin its exciting new chapter is boss Gemma Love, who has been with the pub for seven years. Her work there has been crowned by the British Institute of Innkeeping numerous times, winning the ‘Heart of the Community’ award. 

“I am so excited to reopen the doors to the Quart Pot and welcome in all the locals for a drink,” Gemma said.

“Our investment has transformed the pub and it looks amazing, we hope you all love it as much as we do. The team and I look forward to welcoming you all to try our new festive food menu alongside your favourite drink, we cannot wait to hear what your favourite dishes are.

“We are anticipating a lot of fun to be had at the Quart Pot, especially with the festivities beginning, and we also have exciting weekly entertainment and our grand relaunch party for the local community to come along to.

“The team and I will also be launching our charity fundraising initiatives for the festive season, and we would love it if you would be able to support the cause. I hope to see you all very soon in our new look pub.”

The Quart Pot, in Runwell Road, will be hosting quiz nights throughout the week and there will also be live music nights once a month, featuring south Essex musicians.

With Christmas nearing, Gemma and the team look forward to sharing their festive entertainment with punters, who are urged to keep an eye out for more information soon.

To celebrate the revamp, Gemma and the team will be welcoming all from 6pm on Thursday for an evening of live music from Dan Kelly.