Fuller's pub set to open in at former De La Haye's tearoom in Bourton

The Former De La Haye’s tearoom in Bourton-on-the-Water, which is known as the Venice of the Cotswolds and attracts thousands of tourists from across the world every year, has been given a new lease of life.

It will reopen next month as a pub named The Willow, run by the national chain Fuller’s.

At the helm will be general manager, Tom Carty, who arrives from a sister pub, The Windmill in Portishead near Bristol.

“I’m so excited about the opportunity to open this fantastic new site,” he said.

“I’m swapping one amazing view for another – although I suspect to see smaller waves on The Windrush, compared to the Severn Estuary!

“I’m really looking forward to getting to know the local community and welcoming the residents of Bourton-on-the-Water to The Willow."

De La Haye's tearoom was purchased by Fuller's last year (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Carty added: “My current pub sees a large influx of people from out of town during the summer – but the heart and soul of any pub is always its role within the local neighbourhood, and I can’t wait to be an active member.

“We are currently building a first-class team of over 50 team members – the vast majority of which will come from the local area, so if you want to come and join our exciting new venue – please check out the recruitment section on the Fuller’s website. We will be delighted to hear from you.”

The Willow is Fuller’s latest acquisition and further builds the brand’s presence in the Cotswolds.

In 2019, the pub chain purchased Cotswold Inns & Hotels – a collection of seven country hotels in the region.

Fuller’s say they have “completely transformed” De La Haye’s into a “stunning” pub and restaurant.

It is made up of a number of distinct areas including an informal pub area and a table-service dining room.

There is also a large garden with plenty of outside seating.

The menu will feature a variety of dishes including seasonally changing specials and pub classics alongside a drinks range including beers, wines and spirits.

Fuller’s retail director Fred Turner added: “It is always exciting to be opening new sites – and The Willow is no exception.

“The fantastic design is sympathetic to the genteel nature of the village.

“I’m really looking forward to getting open and I know Tom is going to do an amazing job.”  

The Willow is due to open at the end of March.