AN historic Ashburton pub has reopened after a major makeover which has included repainting an eye-catching mural.

The Old Exeter Inn now boasts a striking new black and gold exterior.

And part of the refurbishment has included fresh repainting of its Sir Walter Raleigh mural by well-known Devon signwriter Josh Monk.

Famed for its near 900-year history, the Grade II listed pub has been closed for essential maintenance.

The mural, designed and hand-painted by Josh, brings to life scenes from Raleigh’s remarkable adventures and commemorates his connection to the inn, where he famously drank before being arrested for treason in 1603.

Josh returned to colour the previously black and white mural, bringing new vibrancy to the much-loved local landmark.

A spokesman for the pub said: ‘It is a fresh chapter in our long history.

‘It’s a lovely example of local craft, heritage, and community pride coming together to keep history alive. 'We’re proud to continue welcoming locals and travellers under the same roof that’s seen everything from pirates to poets.’

Built in 1130 to house the workers of St. Andrews Church, opposite the inn, it was originally called the Church House Inn.

A pub has remained on the site ever since and it claims to be the fifth oldest pub in the country.

It is reputed that Sir Francis Drake was a regular drinker at the inn on his journeys to London as was Sir Walter Raleigh.

Raleigh was arrested at the Exeter Inn and imprisoned in the Tower of London on July 19 1603, accused of plotting against the king.

The Hound of the Baskervilles author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was also known to visit the pub.