The Woolpack Inn, Slad

The Woolpack Inn is an iconic local pub in Slad, Stroud. For over 300 years, it has been nestled into the hillside in the Slad valley. Renowned as a historic favourite of the local writer and poet, Laurie Lee, it regularly featured in his writings and poetry. The wonderful pub has a magical atmosphere, complete with its cozy bar and seating spaces, roaring fires and spectacular views towards Swift’s Hill.

In 2019, the pub required a little more space to accommodate a modern kitchen and additional dining spaces. Gransmore Architects were commissioned to build the new Cotswold stone volume to the rear. The design draws on the original Inn’s heritage for its character and form, but as a contemporary addition, the new extension features a metal roof and integrated solar panels to the south facing roof plane. The owners employed local craftspeople and contractors to undertake the construction work, ensuring it was kept as local and community focussed as possible.

Improved circulation spaces, including a new staircase and rear blacony walkway, allow for food to be taken directly from the kitchens to the internal and external dining areas without crossing over the main pub entrance spaces.

Internally, the kitchens provide a better working environment for staff, including improved storage, ventilation and insulated spaces with their own direct views to the landscape. The dining areas have been design to blend seamlessly with the historic fabric of the original pub, allowing spaces to flow smoothly between the bar and seating areas.