The George Hotel & Granary, at 5 Market Place Frome could look a little different inside it gets a planning application accepted.

The pub, has applied for what it is calling a "Historical opening" to be re-established to create a new route from the bar to restaurant and the bar to be replaced.

The application to Somerset is complex because of the fact the building is so old, so that while nothing will change on the outside of the Grade II listed building, planners will also have to ensure that nothing will change for its neighbours including the former NatWest bank. The whole line of buildings make up one of the oldest stretches and most important in terms of heritage buildings in Frome.

The George was actually rebuilt in the early 1750s with the front façade altered in the early 19th century and the remodelling of the interior in 1874. Through the years it has been at the very heart of the town and operated as a post station, hence the large yard at the back which, according to the heritage document, " includes Stables, described as "The Stabling, which is conveniently arranged round a Yard at the rear of the Hotel, is of a substantial character, and constructed of brick with slated roofs. It comprises a four-stall Stable, 12-stall Stable, six-stall Stable and another Stable contained three Stalls and two Loose Boxes."

The bar will be changing and this will be turned back into a doorway in the plans.

Sales Particulars available for the George Hotel from 1905 describe the site as "the most commanding and finest site in the Town" and it is certainly very popular. But regulars should not fear, the changes, if agreed, will mean opening up the areas to make them more user-friendly. The staff are said to be delighted that a refurbishment is on the way.

You can see the full details of the application 2023/2021/LBC (Opening up of an historic opening. Replacement of existing bar. Installation of a glazed screen.) on the Somerset planning site.