Cotswolds pub to reopen with ‘fresh vision’ under new owners

The Rose & Crown in Ratley, near Banbury, closed unexpectedly in December 2024 for personal reasons and has been on the market for more than a year.

New owners Dee and Norm Knight-Barrett plan to reopen it as a “traditional British ‘pie and pint’ pub,” but first need to complete some refurbishments.

Mr and Mrs Knight-Barrett said on Facebook: “We wanted to reassure everyone that we intend to reopen The Rose & Crown as a traditional British pie and pint pub.

“There is quite a bit of work to do internally, in particular the cellar and kitchen.

“We want to offer the best beers and pies that we can so we need to carry out some upgrades.

“We will keep you posted with regard to progress so please bear with us.

“We are looking forward to meeting you all and making lots of new friends.”

The couple also shared plans for a pub experience shaped with community input, including theme nights, live music, a pool table, sports events, and food evenings like pizza, curry, and barbecues.

Rose & Crown is Grade II listed

The Rose & Crown is a Grade II listed building and is believed to have operated as a pub for more than 250 years.

No opening date has been set yet, as renovations are still underway.

The pub is 10 miles north of Banbury.