WORK is progressing ahead of the re-opening of a landmark Somerset pub.

The Candlelight Inn, at Bishopswood, in the Blackdown Hills near Chard, is gearing up to welcome guests from November 30 with a soft launch, before fully re-opening in January.

The new owners are Maddie Beaumont and Ben Porter, who met at the pub in 2015, and have returned with pub company Redefined Hospitality to breathe new life into the Candlelight.

In May, the pub permanently closed, citing the impact of the A303 closures and rising costs.

The new owners are also behind the nearby award-winning Cotley Inn, at Wambrook, and are promising to bring The Candlelight “back to life”.

“After a short closure, we’re opening a fresh new chapter, rooted in everything you’ve always loved about this special place,” they said.

“We’ll be open for a series of pop-up dates through December before fully opening in January 2026.

“Guests can expect the familiar hallmarks of The Cotley Inn; warm hospitality, community focus and a deep respect for local produce while The Candlelight Inn will develop its own identity.”

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The pair thanked previous owners, Mike and Simon Rose-MacLeod, for “their huge success during their time at the helm”.

“Their hard work and dedication have paved the way for this exciting new chapter, and Redefined Hospitality is proud to build upon the strong foundations they created,” they added.

Ahead of the full opening, The Candlelight is hosting a wreath-making workshop from 6.30pm on December 5, and a Candlelight Carols event on December 19, from 6pm.

For more information on The Candlelight Inn at Bishopswood, log on to candlelightinn.co.uk.

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Ben and Maddie also run The Cotley Inn, at Wambrook