Food & Hospitality · Marlborough
Ambitious renovation plans unveiled for historic Seven Stars pub in Bottlesford
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Proposals have been submitted to Wiltshire Council to transform the historic Seven Stars in Bottlesford into a destination venue featuring a new restaurant, yoga barn and expanded guest accommodation.
A major development scheme has been unveiled for the Seven Stars at Bottlesford, a historic inn in the Pewsey Vale that has remained closed since last summer. Planning documents submitted to Wiltshire Council outline a vision to extensively renovate the landmark, which was purchased by Lady Loretta Rothschild last year.
The Seven Stars, which dates back to at least 1748, is currently listed as an Asset of Community Value. The proposed transformation aims to preserve the original thatched building while removing later additions to the rear. Architects for the project state that these modern extensions have created a convoluted layout that hinders the efficient operation of the site.
Expanding facilities and community space
Under the new plans, the existing kitchen, toilets and staff quarters are set to be demolished. These will be replaced by single-storey buildings constructed around a landscaped courtyard, designed to restore the traditional character of the site. The original front portion of the inn will be retained as a public bar, while the new structures will house an expanded restaurant, private dining facilities and a dedicated multi-purpose space for community events.
The project also includes a significant boost to local tourism facilities. The number of guest rooms is planned to rise from the current two to 12, split across two new buildings. This will include an accessible suite, while the grounds are set to feature a yoga barn overlooking nearby woodland and a stream. Other proposed additions include a covered, open-sided cart shed for seasonal food offerings, children's play equipment and landscaped gardens.
Increased capacity and sustainability
In an effort to make the venue more commercially viable, the developer has also proposed a substantial increase in parking capacity, moving from the current 15 spaces to 41 across two separate parking areas. Architects at Milton Architects noted that the central aim of the proposal is to breathe new life into the village pub and solidify its role as a key community hub.
The Seven Stars boasts a long and varied history. Beyond its traditional role as a hostelry for local farm workers, the site once served as part of a larger complex that briefly hosted a fireworks manufacturing business in the early 20th century. The planning application is now subject to review by Wiltshire Council, which will determine whether the proposal succeeds in balancing the modernisation of the business with the preservation of the building's heritage.
Source: Gazette & Herald — Marlborough · View original