The opening date for a town centre pub has been revealed following a massive £200,000 revamp.

New owners of The Grapes, in Gravesend, will be welcoming new and old customers back this week but think people will not recognise it after the refurbishment.

Manager Esther Larney told KentOnline: “It is a complete building refurbishment from the garden, flooring, lighting, bar and toilets. Everything is new.

“Everyone talked about how good it used to be and it is about getting that back. We are looking to give something different to the area.”

The historic boozer, on the corner of Milton Road, closed its doors early last year and was auctioned off by brewery Shepherd Neame.

It was snapped up only months later by businessman Steve Basi, who also owns The Bas Bar in Strood, and who has spent a year revamping the entire public house.

He added: “It is what is missing in Gravesend. It has been a long time in the making.”

The pair wanted the pub to have an upmarket and premium feel similar to what punters would find in London, and believe they have done just that.

They have installed a bespoke bar, a garden wall ceiling, an outdoor seating area which acts like a “secret garden”, feature lights, and completely re-done the bathrooms.

The walls have been painted black with gold accents, backlit mirrors and shelving and they have installed a new cooling and heating unit so it can be climate controlled.

Esther said: “It is a very exciting end to a labour of love project. It is absolutely about putting The Grapes back on the map.”

The Grapes will be serving spirits, wine, beer, and soft drinks and will have bespoke cocktails.

It will also introduce food which will include small and sharing plates.

The pub will be opening tomorrow (July 21), and operating Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday between 12pm and 11pm and Friday and Saturday from 12pm to 1am.