A four-century old pub has been reopened by a pandemic- bucking father and daughter team
have reopened one of Kirkcaldy’s oldest pubs after a major £450,000 revamp.
The Chapel Tavern in Kirkcaldy had been due to open in April following a £450,000 refit and it has finally relaunched with Gavin Innes and Gillian Moffat at the helm.
The pub dates back to 1610 and the work has retained the original character but larger windows and a log burner have given it a lighter, more contemporary feel.
Other changes include new toilets, kitchen and universally-accessible access.
With social distancing now required, a number of safety measures have been put in place and customers must book a table in advance.
Gavin and Gillian, from Leven, ran a popular pub and restaurant in the past before 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.
“We want The Chapel Tavern to be a focal point of local life with a fun atmosphere that caters for the whole community.
“The Chapel is the only pub in the Chapel area so there’s been a lot of interest in the plans – those who have seen it are amazed at the difference.”
Gavin said the team is feeling positive, despite the new restrictions.
Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars is behind the venture and its operations director for Scotland Brian Davidson said he is delighted to see the pub given a new lease of life.
“The Chapel Tavern is a really individual pub with a wonderful sense of history.
“It has served the area for more than four centuries and we want to keep it thriving for future generations.”
