AN Andover pub which has undergone a £150,000 rejuvenation is on the brink of opening its doors to the public.

The Lunar Hare, in Weyhill Road, formerly The Railway Tavern, has been transformed by former actors Allen and Helen Watts into a place where they “would like to go”.

Mr and Mrs Watts have signed a 20-year lease on the building and enlisted the help of tradesmen from around the borough to complete the renovation.

This week the Andover Advertiser was given a sneak preview ahead of the pub’s official opening on Monday, 2 February.

Furniture from Fickle Pickle, near Stockbridge, has given the watering hole a chic feel, while the pub’s beer garden – although not due for completion until spring – will be rebranded as “the beach” complete with deckchairs and a 1950s caravan for people to enjoy their food and drink in.

There is also The Snug, an intimate dining and conference area in a separate building off the garden.

Mr Watts, 39, said: “We wanted to make a place that was a home from home, somewhere worth leaving the house for.

“Lots of people have mentioned the last article in the Advertiser and we have had about 500 bookings. The feedback has been absolutely incredible on Facebook.”

Manager Adam Reeves said: “I’m very much looking forward to it.

“I have worked in restaurants and bars over the years, but it’s the first time being at the genesis of one, and that’s very exciting.”

The pub will feature regular music nights, open mic events and quizzes.