A DORSET ‘destination’ pub, known for its countryside views, is to close for almost a month for a refurbishment.

The Mitre at Shaftesbury has extensive views of the surrounding countryside from its position at almost the highest point in the hilltop town.

Works planned for the High Street pub includes painting and rendering the walls to the rear of the building, an extension to the bar counter to create a glasswash area and coffee station, new bar display gantries, internal redecorations and the repair of wall lanterns at the entrance to the pub.

The pub sits in the town’s Conservation Area, has been grade 2 listed since 1973 and is part of a cluster of town centre buildings including the Town Hall and the Church of St Peter dating mainly from the 18th and 19th century although a section of the pub can be traced back to 1615. It is also close to the historic Gold Hill.

Young and Co say the pub’s bar needs extending as it can no longer cope with demand with the other works “necessary to improve the pub’s facilities and customer offer, secure inward investment and ultimately ensure its long-term conservation within its historic use.”

A brewery spokesperson said it was expected that the works will start at The Mitre from October 23rd, taking place over three to four weeks, re-opening in November in time for the festive season. The brewery said it was not prepared to share the cost of the refurbishment.

Trip Advisor customers rate the pub four out of five overall with many mentioning the views from the rear terrace across open countryside to the s