AN historic rural public house with a reputation for hosting celebrities from the world of movies, television, and rock bands has reopened under new management and with an internationally-acclaimed chef.

The Rock Inn, in Waterrow, near Wiveliscombe, closed while it was being sold by husband-and-wife team Daren and Ruth Barclay, who had run it for the past 10 years.

Now, Sri Lankan-inspired 3 Flavours Kitchen has taken over and invited local residents to an opening event for its first Westcountry eatery.

The company, which already runs restaurants in Oxfordshire and Essex and plans to roll out more ‘in the near future’, is known for its commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and local suppliers.

Chef Chanaka Fernando has launched a new menu for The Rock Inn with a vision to provide ‘an exceptional dining experience that combines culinary excellence with the charm of Waterrow’.

Chanaka, who has sculpted his menu through his vast culinary knowledge, drawing influence from around the world, said: “Our focus is on delivering high-quality, flavourful dishes that celebrate local produce and innovative cooking techniques.”

Guests at the launch event sampled the new menu with complimentary drinks and helped to mark the beginning of a series of openings planned across the Westcountry aiming to bring the renowned 3 Flavours Menu to a broader audience.

A Puja ceremony was held at the start of the event which saw friends and family light candle wicks set in coconut oil to bring blessings for prosperity and success to The Rock Inn as a business.

The Hindu ceremony serves as a ‘spiritual foundation’ for the business, creating an atmosphere of ‘sanctity and auspiciousness’.

A spokesperson said: “It is a moment to reflect on ethical business practices and to commit to contributing positively to society.

“This was so lovely to see and it is clear that business partners Chamila and Chanaka have plenty of love and support around them, willing them to do well.”

The Rock Inn, which dates to 450 years ago and was originally a smithy, becoming a pub in about 1850, is now open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

It was being marketed through Christie and Co for £465,000 but the final purchase price has not been revealed.

Christie and Co regional director Richard Wood said: “We are delighted to have sold the freehold interest of The Rock Inn.

“This sale demonstrates the continued demand we are experiencing for pubs with the potential to be tenanted throughout the South West of England.”

The property includes eight guest rooms for holidaymakers, a self-contained owner’s flat, a restaurant and bar seating 50 diners, and a garden terrace at the front seating 20 customers.

It has regularly featured in The Good Pub Guide and was awarded a star for outstanding food.

Among the celebrities who have been spotted in The Rock Inn are rock stars Liam Gallagher and Nick Mason, of Oasis and Pink Floyd fame, respectively, singer Joss Stone, actress Jodie Kidd, and television presenters Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan.