A CENTURIES-OLD pub in Reading has been revived following closure in 2022, with its original name.
The Rising Sun, formerly the Sun Inn, was shuttered in May 2022, bringing to a close more than 320 years of business at the venue.
It was subsequently bought by the Heartwood Collection, founded by chef and hotelier Raymond Blanc, and following renovations has officially opened its doors to the public.
The mayor of Reading, Cllr Glenn Dennis, was among those to attend the grand opening, alongside Alexa Volker, manager of Reading Business Improvement Districts, and Heartwood CEO Richard Ferrier.
The opening saw entertainment from the Peter Bingham Jazz Quartet, as well as a juggler and tastings from Loddon Brewery.
Cllr Glenn Dennis said at the event: “It feels very historic to be at the re-opening of one of the oldest pubs in Reading.
Alexa Volker of Reading Business Improvement District said: “We really like to look after our old buildings, and this one perhaps hasn’t been at its best for a few years.
“Now Heartwood has taken over to pull it out of the doldrums and given it the moniker The Rising Sun.
“It’s a different vibe, but it’s a really lovely place to be.”
Emma Martin, senior communications manager at Heartwood, said at the event: “We consulted with Reading Museum, and we decided to restore its former name, The Rising Sun.”
She explained that the front part of the building is Grade II listed, meaning no changes could be made to the layout of the rooms, though recycled wood flooring has been installed and panelling restored in the more traditional front rooms.
The back of the venue has also seen an extension, providing space for a full kitchen for its new food offerings.
The back of the venue has been renovated to form a 120-seat restaurant, which leads out to a beer garden.
The garden, converted from the former car park, features a ‘shepherd’s hut’ outside bar, space for live performances, heated booths, and a heated canopy.
Richard Ferrier, CEO of the Heartwood Collection, said: “We are very excited to have re-opened this iconic pub in the heart of Reading.
“As the oldest pub in the town, we have really enjoyed restoring this property and hope the people of Reading like it as much as we do.”
The Rising Sun is set to host music from Peared on Friday, June 28, and a biscuit decoration workshop with the Funky Cookie Company on Sunday, June 30.
Full details about The Rising Sun, including upcoming events, are available via: risingsunreading.com
