THE landlord of a historic Kidderminster pub that recently reopened its doors said it's 'not only surviving but thriving.'

Wayne Barber brought the Chester Tavern back to life last summer after being out of action for a few years. 

The Chester Road North pub, which is believed to have first opened in 1855, underwent a huge revamp. The pub fell into disrepair following its closure in 2019.

Now, the pub has been a hit with residents since reopening around six months ago.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The new-look Chester TavernThe new-look Chester Tavern (Image: Wayne Barber)

Mr Barber said: "At a time when pubs are closing by the dozen we seem not only to be surviving but thriving.

"People seem to love our little pub and it’s really humbling".

"We have built up a loyal and fantastic customer base and we welcome many more as we continue to grow".

Mr Barber is continuing to expand the pub's offering as he plans on opening a garden bar at the pub later this year.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Inside the revamped Chester TavernInside the revamped Chester Tavern (Image: Wayne Barber)

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He added: "We have a log burner and cosy seats for the winter and a beautiful beer garden for the summer so we hope we can stay busy all year round.

"We also have a fantastic function room upstairs which has a private bar and a full-size shuffleboard table which hosts not only private functions but also arranged events such as gin and whisky tastings and there are plans afoot to host regular stand-up comedy events.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The garden at the pubThe garden at the pub (Image: Wayne Barber)

"Every Thursday night and Sunday afternoon we host local musicians and we have an open mic the last Tuesday of each month where we welcome anybody who wants to play, sing or just listen.

"We plan to open the garden bar in the Spring which will serve the beer garden for snacks and refreshments".