A Cotswold pub is now under new ownership.

The Shilton Rose and Crown, located in the village of Shilton just south of Burford, has been bought for £650,000.

Built in the 1600s out of Cotswold stone, the pub is now Grade II listed.

The pub has traded independently for the last 15 years and the owner has now sold the property to allow him to retire.

New director at the Rose and Crown, Elizabeth Koo Donnelly, said: “We were really pleased to find such a beautiful inn for sale, and we are excitedly looking forward to building on the legacy of the former owner and to create new accommodation in the barn that we are currently drawing up plans for.

"We are aiming to make The Rose and Crown a must visit destination in the region and to welcoming customers old and new.”

The pub's kitchen is currently being refurbished but will be ready to offer a new menu from March 1.

In the past The Rose and Crown has featured in the Michelin Guide, The Good Pub Guide and has had a Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor.

Customers have visited from far and wide as a result of the village having featured in Downton Abbey.

The pub was sold by commercial real estate specialists Colliers.

Peter Brunt, a director in Colliers Hotels Agency team, said: “The Shilton Rose and Crown is a fantastic property with excellent development potential and scope for growth.

"We are thrilled to be a part of its historic journey and wish the new owners all the best in their tenure.

"I am sure that property will bring them years of happiness and most importantly profit. I am looking forward to seeing how the business will further develop and thrive in their hands.

"This is the third smart inn located in and around this region that has completed through me in 2022 showing how strong demand is for these lovely businesses.”