The Woolpack in Sutton Veny celebrates its first year in business.

A village pub is celebrating its first year as a new

business venture.  Just over a year ago,

after two years of neglect and boarded up windows, the Woolpack in Sutton Veny

was brought back to life by new owners Tim and Abbie Smith. Over the last ten

years the Woolpack has hosted a succession of owners and been closed for the

last two, but Tim and Abbie have worked to bring stability and character to the

pub, totally transforming its reputation.

 The Woolpack’s interior is now unrecognisable.  Boarded up windows and  60’s carpet have been replaced with shining wooden floorboards and cheerful paintings by local artists Alice Harfield and Philip Ledbury. And for the first time in many years the pub is no longer a sponsored brewery, it’s a free house which sells local ales and wines. Finally after all these years, the Woolpack has developed a personality.

Tim Smith explained how there were those who said the Woolpack could never be “a foody pub”, but as this successful year draws to a close it is clear that these critics have been proven wrong. The pub provides excellent food in a great atmosphere without becoming a gastro restaurant.

Supporting local suppliers, the seasonal menu ranges from game in the winter to seafood in the summer.  Although the emphasis is on great food, the Woolpack has built up a mix of regular drinkers and those who stop for an occasional pint on the way home from work; consequently the bar like the restaurant, is rarely empty.

The reopening of the pub has been  welcomed by Sutton Veny residents, becoming an asset and village focal point. Tim and Abbie describe the support they have received as fantastic, truly exceeding their expectations. Such support is evident in the brimming visitors’ book, Nikki and Nigel from Crockerton described the Woolpack as “a great village pub - lovely atmosphere, lovely food” 

 Tim and Abbie who can both regularly be found front of house, explain that although the past year has been hard work, they have loved it and have been very grateful for all the local support.

 To book a table, or to inquire about catering services for an outside event, call 01985 840834.