Kirkcaldy pub set to re-open after £450,000 transformation

The Chapel Tavern returns to operations after a seven-month closure and major refit which was further delayed by lockdown.

The new licensees, father and daughter team, Gavin Innes and Gillian Moffat, open the doors on Monday.

Dating back to 1610, The Chapel Tavern on Chapel Road was due to open in late April following refurbishment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars.

Work was delayed for five months by lockdown, but the investment has transformed the Chapel Tavern.

Enlarged windows give a light, airy feel and a new log burner adds warmth. Three distinct areas – a bar with new screens showing BT and Sky Sports, a dining area and a cosy lounge with soft seating – enable the pub to cater for all occasions.

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It has opened up the inside of the pub enabling it to comfortably accommodate 119 and added alfresco eating and drinking areas with seats for a further 58 outside. There is also a south-facing deck.

Other changes include new toilets and a new kitchen.

Gavin and Gillian, who come from Leven, ran a popular pub and a restaurant together in the past.

Gavin left to travel the world with a career in oil and gas and Gillian went into the care sector.

Gavin said: “We loved running a pub together and it has always been our dream to do it again one day.

“When we saw The Chapel Tavern, we jumped at the chance to take it on. It feels really welcoming and looks beautiful, with a perfect mix of the old and the new inside.

“We want The Chapel Tavern to be a focal point of local life with a fun atmosphere that caters for the whole community. It is the only pub in the Chapel area, so there’s been lot of interest in the plans – those who’ve seen it are amazed at the difference.”

He added: “It’s fantastic to be opening the doors even with the new restrictions and the whole team feels really positive.”

The pub reopens with bookings only via Facebook, Instagram or by telephone.

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