Stroud Times was given the chance to have a look behind the scenes as work continues at the Royal Oak pub ahead of its reopening later this month. It’s now under the ownership of Fred Hulls and Jeremy McGovern, who also run the highly acclaimed Good Food Kitchen, located just a short walk from the pub.
The pub in Wotton-under-Edge will reopen on October 31st with a special Halloween celebration party. It will feature completely new food and drink menus, distinct from those at the bistro the duo purchased in March 2023. Since then, Good Food Kitchen has won multiple awards and built a strong reputation for high-quality, locally sourced dishes offering exceptional value.
With a history stretching back more than 300 years, the pub was opened in its present location in Haw Street in 1864 when it was owned by Godsell and Son’s brewery in Stroud. Previously, the pub had been situated a short distance away on the corner of Bradley Street and Haw Street.
Fred and Jeremy have assembled a strong team to ensure a smooth reopening. Head Chef Ross Gardiner, a Stroud native, brings over two decades of culinary experience across the UK. From his early days at bistro Comfy Pews near Gloucester Cathedral, to making homemade burgers and pizzas, to working with Fred at the successful Stroud tapas bar No.23, and most recently at River Exe Café, an award-winning floating restaurant, Ross is ready to establish roots back in his home area at The Royal Oak.
Joining him is Jess Ayres as Front of House and Events Manager. Jess brings seven years of experience from Two Tribes in London, helping the brewery expand through account and event management, along with extensive global hospitality experience, including managing bars at The Sidewinder in Brighton and The Royal Albert in Sydney.
“We see The Royal Oak as full of potential,” said Fred Hulls. “While ensuring the lease is sustainable, we’ve connected with former colleagues who were excited to join us. The community already knows our style; we’ve listened to their feedback and believe we are the right team for the job. Starting with a strong team allows us to deliver consistent food and service, and we couldn’t be happier to have Jess and Ross onboard. For the remainder of 2025, we’ll offer a simple but perfectly executed locally-sourced menu, with some exciting changes planned for 2026.”
For the rest of 2025, the pub will serve high-end pub or gastropub dishes, including Sunday roasts. The venue will close for a portion of January 2026 for renovations before re-opening with a new menu. In addition to the pub’s regular offerings, the team plans to introduce an Italian menu, responding to local demand. The Royal Oak also aims to collaborate with local schools and charities focused on children and families, creating a space that reflects the community’s needs.
