A popular Cotswolds model village and inn has been sold to new owners, who plan to breathe new life into the business.

The Old New Inn and model village, situated in the village of Bourton-on-the-Water, was sold to the new owners for £595,000 by Christies and Co.

A one ninth scale exact replica of Bourton-on-the-Water and crafted by local builders from local Cotswold stone, the miniature village is a major attraction in the area.

Built in 1936, it is one of the oldest model villages in England and the only one to be given Grade II listed status.

Recognised for its rarity, the attraction draws in over 100,000 visitors a year from across the UK and internationally.

The Old New Inn is also Grade II listed, dating back to 1712, and offers accommodation for guests to enjoy traditional surroundings, featuring original stone fireplaces, flagstone flooring, and wooden beamed ceilings.

The previous owners, Mr and Mrs Atherton operated the business since 1999 and decided to retire this year.

They decided to move on in order to retire and comment, “We have thoroughly enjoyed the last 19 years here and have been delighted with the increase in visitors to the Model Village.

Now we are looking forward to our retirement and wish Andrew & Julie all the best as we are sure they’ll only boost the business further!”

New owners, Andrew and Julie Lund-Yates, both have extensive experience in the hospitality trade and plan to reopen the business full time, for food, drink and accommodation.

“We’re both incredibly excited to be taking on this fantastic piece of history.

"We’ve got great plans to provide fantastic food, drink and accommodation, and bring the old place alive again!”