Historic Gloucester pub the Dick Whittington's will reopen its doors today (Aug 30) after being restored to its former glory.

The Westgate Street venue has been taken over by Gloucester couple Lee and Vicky Bradley, who have spent tens of thousands refurbishing the The Grade I listed building with a team of experts.

The husband and wife, who also run The Avenue pub in Bristol Road, got the keys to the city centre building in July after taking over the leasehold.

"It has been a labour of love to restore it," said Lee.

"There was extensive water damage and an arsonist had set fire to the upstairs causing smoke damage.

"We told our contractors to keep all the historical features and the timber ceilings and oak flooring have all been exposed.

"It's been a real challenge but it has been worth it."

Built in the 1400s the timber and brick pub is said to be named after the original owner's famous nephew who became Mayor of London.

It has undergone multiple refurbishments over the years, including adding a Georgian town house frontage in the 18th century, conversion to a shop in the 19th century, and transformation to a public house in 1980 by Gloucester Historic Buildings Ltd (now the Gloucester Civic Trust).

In 2018, it was sold by Dominion Hospitality to Four County Inns, who refurbished the venue but then shut it in 2020.

Lee said they decided to take it on after strolling past it back in January.

"We went to the bottom of Westgate and thought it looked a bit miserable because The Old Crown opposite is also closed.

"We have a thing for old buildings and knew the historic importance of Dick Whittington's so decided we should bring it back to its former glory."

Lee, 42, and Vicky, 38 have assembled a staff of 12 to run the pub, serving up a selection of alcohol from Gloucester Brewery and other local businesses.

The seasonal menu will also be "90% local" said Lee and include handmade pies, sausages and burgers.

Punters will be able to enjoy their libations alongside a weekly session of live music.

The Black Cat Cellar has also been refurbished and will be available to hire for weddings, parties and other events.

"This isn't a job for us," said Lee. "It is a lifestyle. It's about the people we get to meet from all walks of life.

"We can't wait to welcome customers to Dick Whittngton's."

A soft launch will be held tonight (Friday) with the pub opening fully from September 6.