COCKTAILS on draught and a refurbished garden are some of the features pub-goers can look forward to with George and Dragon set to reopen next week.

Using the Covid-19 lockdowns to give the venue a complete makeover, visitors to the Castle Street watering hole can enjoy new decor, a new menu and new cocktails, which take around seven seconds to create.

One customer said joint landlords and brothers Nathan and Nick Lamb had “put their heart and soul into making the pub the best it could be”, which is why it was put forward as the Journal’s pub of the week.

Talking about the periods out of lockdown, the same nominator said: “The team has adapted well to the new changes, ensuring customers and staff are as safe as can be, whilst continuing to provide amazing service, smiling and laughing.

"They have put the traditional village pub with a solid community in the heart of the city centre.”

Talking to the Journal about the latest refurbishment and reopening, Nick said it was a case of “ripping everything up and starting again”.

He said: “We’re pretty much good to go now, we’re hoping all the work we have done will attract lots more different people.

"We have got an advantage with having the outdoor space, it’s nice to have that option and a bit of variety.

“I think it will be ace to have this positive reopening and see everybody enjoying the new set up and sunshine.”

Herbs in the garden is something to look out for, as well as plans for future live music.

Reflecting on what makes the pub special, Nick said its involvement with the community, including hosting one of the first Salisbury Pride events, adding: “There’s a wonderful spirit here - anyone can walk in and make a friend.”

To nominate your favourite local pubs click here.

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