A prominent Norfolk pub, which closed in 2012, reopened this week under new management and a new name.

Norwich Evening News: The Dun Cow at Swainsthorpe. Date: Jan 1968. Photo: EDP LibraryThe Dun Cow at Swainsthorpe. Date: Jan 1968. Photo: EDP Library (Image: Archant)

Following two years of extensive refurbishment, the venue formerly known as The Dun Cow, on the A140 at Swainsthorpe, near Norwich, is welcoming customers as SugarBeat Eating House.

The building has seen a complete facelift since it was bought two years ago by Simon and Hazel Cruickshank.

As well as offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, it also features a large lawned area for wedding parties and corporate events, a function room, plus four individually-styled bedrooms.

SugarBeat is to be operated by well-known Norfolk hospitality entrepreneur, Henry Watt, who was the brainchild behind the likes of The Wildebeest Arms and Mackintosh's Canteen. His team is led by Stevie King as general manager and by Alan Leech, as head chef.

Mr Watt said: 'Much has changed over the last couple of years in terms of what an eating and drinking venue needs to be able to offer its customers.

'It's not good enough to be serving great food and a reasonable selection of beers, wines and spirits.

'Customers want to know you completely understand them inside and out, so that's why we've tailored SugarBeat to meet people's needs.

'I've run a number of eateries in my career, but it is giving me a huge sense of satisfaction to know we're breathing life into a landmark venue so close to Norwich.

'We're certainly not a gastropub. We're an all-day eating house delivering great food, a dose of fun, and a venue where you'll always feel at home.'

The Dun Cow has a well recorded history as a hospitality venue in Norfolk. Records suggest it was run by a Richard Bradford in the late 1700s. It briefly went under the name of The Wig and Dickle in the 1990s.

Have you got a story about a pub reopening in the area? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk