AROUND 300 guests enjoyed a wonderful evening last night at the launch of the Crown in Minchinhampton.

The historic pub, bought by co-founder of fashion label Superdry Julian Dunkerton opens to the public at noon today, Friday.

Entrepreneur Julian snapped up the pub in September last year to add to his Lucky Onion group of hotels, restaurants and pubs.

Julian attended last night's launch with his wife, fashion designer Jade Holland Cooper.

Besides friends and local media, the couple invited members of the Minchinhampton community to the event.

When the Crown closed seven years ago, it left the community without a pub.

Renovation of the 18th century building, which originally opened in 1715, has retained the pub’s distinctive features while also adding signature design flourishes to bring it up to date.

The pub will be serving up an understated yet classic British menu from chef, Ronnie Bonetti.

Photography by Paul Nicholls.