A historic coaching inn dating back nearly 300 years is set to reopen following a £500,000 refurbishment.
The Red Lion at Water End, near Hemel Hempstead, will welcome back customers in November.
Upham Inns aims to put the pub back at the heart of community life, with a fresh look and a renewed focus on both dining and casual drinks.
Kelly Beard, head of marketing at Upham Inns, said: "Our investment in The Red Lion is about strengthening everything people want from their local: a welcoming bar, good food and somewhere they can enjoy spending time throughout the week.
"The changes will give drinking and socialising a more prominent place in the pub, alongside its established dining offer."
Dating back to 1730, The Red Lion once featured its own brewhouse and three acres of farmland.
The refurbishment includes full redecoration and a refreshed interior by John Rogers of Creative Thinking.
General manager Franco Di Ruberto, who grew up in his family’s Italian restaurant and has managed venues across the hospitality sector, said: "Growing up in my family’s restaurant, I learnt that the best places are the ones where everyone feels at home, and that’s exactly what we want The Red Lion to be.
"Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, meeting friends for lunch or popping in for a pint after work, there’s a place for you here."
New high tables create more room for casual drinks and conversation, while the dining area is warmer and more intimate.
The garden has also been improved, with outdoor pods offering private seating for groups of six to eight.
Head chef Andrew Hipgrave will oversee the open kitchen, serving a menu that blends Mediterranean flavours with classic pub favourites.
Sample dishes include seared yellow fin tuna with a crispy rice cake and pickled ginger, and venison haunch with blue cheese purée and parsnip crisps.
Other highlights include Neapolitan-style pizzas, slow-braised lamb shank and Cornish Orchard cider-battered fish and chips.
The Red Lion will continue serving breakfast and Sunday roasts, from a full English to sirloin of beef with all the trimmings.
The pub welcomes families and dogs, with children’s menus costing £10 for two courses or £12 for three, plus Woofchester treats.
Further updates will be shared ahead of the reopening on The Red Lion’s social media channels.
Upham Inns took charge of a number of venues after buying out Oakman Group PLC in July 2025.
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