A 250-YEAR-OLD Dartmoor pub has reopened under new ownership following a £500,000 refurbishment. 

The White Hart at Moretonhampstead went under the hammer earlier this year after the former owner Alison McGregor decided to close up. 

The Grade II listed historic coaching inn, thought to have been open since 1775, was known as the ‘cornerstone of the community before its sale at auction. 

It was bought in February by James Jackson and his partner Hannah Chester who are no strangers to historic pubs having previously owned the iconic Jamaica Inn. 

Refurbishment of the pub and hotel has included the bars, restaurant, kitchen, courtyard and communal areas.

Originally a posting inn, the White Hart was a stopping post for travellers to change their horses, often on their way to and from Exeter. 

Former owner Alison and her late husband ran the hotel for 12 years.