The Quintessential
Country Pub

Interior Design

The aim

Mitchells & Butlers’ Vintage Inns have one mission: to be Britain’s most loved country pubs. The kind of places you stumble upon, fall in love with, and return to again and again. Each pub is packed with unique charm and character, leaving guests pleasantly surprised to discover they are part of a larger group.

It is all about restoration, preserving heritage, satisfying service, ensuring the experience matches the setting, and relaxation - creating cosy spaces where everyone feels at home. Since our first trial sites in 2019, we have completed 15 Vintage Inns across the UK, proving that good design doesn’t have to come at the cost of individuality.

Quintessential pubs, uniquely individual, consistently exceptional.

The challenge

In a market where dining out is becoming a special occasion and material costs are rising, the real question was: how do we spend smarter to maximise impact? Drinks-led areas needed to stay accessible and welcoming, while dining zones had to feel inviting and just that little bit special. By rethinking customer journeys, adapting zoning, and introducing a refreshed design scheme, we created spaces that work beautifully from an operations perspective, whilst still standing-out aesthetically.

Customer journey and zoning

A huge part of the process involved stepping into the customers’ shoes. From the approach by road or on foot (most rural spots attract the ramblers and walkers), to navigating the layout once inside – Every. Detail. Mattered.

External signage, lighting, and landscaping were all carefully considered, and of course the condition of the architecture itself.

Inside, zoning was the make or break in creating flow and comfort. Each venue was divided into three distinct spaces:

Pub and Snug: Cosy and relaxed, with textures like wool and leather, deep tones, and intimate lighting. This area, near the bar, welcomes muddy boots, paws, and pint-holding hands.
All Day: A bright, flexible space perfect for morning coffee or evening cocktails. The softer colour palette creates an inviting atmosphere for brunch or an after-work drink.
Dining: The most formal area, featuring plush textures, decorative patterns, and larger tables. Pops of colour and a touch of elegance make this the perfect spot for enjoying a hearty meal.

The palette

The colour palette takes its influence from country traditions, comprising of light and fresh pastels through to strong earthy tones, complimented with a flash of rich, warm orange.

Through combining a collection of textures and prints, both in upholstery, feature wallpaper and even artwork, a depth is added to the palette, with variations made to align with each zone as above, whilst still maintaining a harmonious feel overall.

The results

The transformation speaks for itself. Kerb appeal has been dramatically improved (incredibly important for pubs especially), interiors now feel more welcoming, and revamped garden spaces add to the charm.

With refurbished guest areas and a refreshed menu from the catering team, each site has retained its individual character while achieving an exceptional standard.

Refurb looks great without changing the country pub feeling. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW WILLY WICKET

Décor and ambience lovely, warm and welcoming. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW WILLY WICKET

Pub looks great still kept its charm but has more elegance about it. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW GOLDEN RETRIEVER

First visit since refurbishment and have to say the pub is looking fantastic. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW WHITE LION

I was relieved to see that it hadn't been modernised or themed, just freshened up. Still a homely atmosphere, fire in the grate on a chilly evening, tables not too close together. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW WHITE LION

What an amazing change. Not just the recent refurbishment which has made the whole place look bright and modern, but the food was most excellent. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW THE VINE

Can only say what a pleasure it was, lovely building outside and amazing transformation inside. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW CALVERLEY ARMS

The pub has just had a major refurb and has been improved beyond recognition from how it was previous. It’s now bright and still has the homely feel with the open fires. TRIP ADVISOR REVIEW BULLS HEAD