A "WOKE" pub has reopened following a major refurbishment.
The Angel, near Wareham, welcomed back customers after a transformation of more than £300,000 by Hall & Woodhouse.
The revamp includes a completely redesigned interior, new main entrance, upgraded bar and dining areas, and a raised terrace with Portland Stone walls leading to a courtyard and grass beer garden.
The pub, formerly know as The Quiet Woman, has undergone a £300,000 refurbishment (Image: Hall & Woodhouse)
The outdoor space now seats up to 125 guests, with a children’s playground planned for April 2027.
Malcolm Bain, the pub’s new business partner, said: "The Angel is a fantastic opportunity because we can focus entirely on delivering a great experience for our guests from day one.
"Hall & Woodhouse has created a beautiful pub with traditional character, and we're excited to build a welcoming space that becomes part of the local community.
The Angel (Image: Hall & Woodhouse)
"We want The Angel to be a place where everyone feels at home."
Mr Bain brings more than 30 years of hospitality experience to the role.
The Angel now serves pub classics including burgers, fish and chips, and a Sunday carvery, with a new weekend breakfast buffet from 9am.
The pub is open seven days a week and serves food from 9am to 9pm.
The pub changed its name from the Silent Woman last year (Image: BNPS)
The refurbishment comes after the pub changed its named from the Silent Woman in November.
Hall & Woodhouse were accused of going "woke" after the century old name, inspired by Thomas Hardy, was changed.
Regulars slammed the decision including one "feminist" customer who said she took no offence at its former name.
Jane Bull said: "I travelled miles to come and drink in this pub just because of its name.
"I am a feminist and did not find the historical reference offensive. So sad."
Another regular, Peter Hector, said in October: "I have lived in the area for nearly 70 years and it's always been the Silent Woman and I agree seems very woke to change it to The Angel just because some silly a**e is offended."
Hall and Woodhouse business development partner Izzy Hersom said following the name change: “We are excited to announce that The Silent Woman is being renamed to The Angel, a return to its original name dating back over 400 years.
“This change is part of our vision to breathe new life into the pub while staying true to its rich history and heritage – it’s a character property situated in an area popular with locals, diners and holidaymakers, has an attractive patio and great garden areas, but it is dated.
Ms Hersom added Hall & Woodhouse was "committed to maintaining its traditional charm to ensure the historic character of the building is preserved".
“The name The Angel perfectly captures this balance – we think it symbolises a rebirth yet still honours the pub’s original essence.”
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