A 19th century pub in the centre of Oxford is to be given a new lease of life when it relaunches tomorrow.

The Castle Tavern on the corner of Castle Street and Paradise Street has been taken over by Hook Norton Brewery after being closed since the start of the month.

It will open its doors again at 6pm tomorrow and will trade over the Christmas and new year period before closing again for an extensive refurbishment.

Hook Norton Brewery operations manager Bruce Benyon said: "This is an exciting time for the brewery. 

"We have 38 great pubs and The Castle Tavern will really strengthen our portfolio. 

"We will be serving a great mix of quality cask ales and craft keg beers."

The brewery said it had been hunting for a pub in Oxford since 1859 but the right opportunity had not presented itself until now.

The Castle Tavern dates back to 1892 and was constructed in a distinctive mock-Tudor style.

It was almost lost forever when the original Westgate Centre was built, but avoided the wrecking balls.

The brewery said it was particularly attracted to the pub because of the ongoing redevelopment at the Westgate Centre, which will be completed next autumn.