A NEW family-friendly bar has opened in Basingstoke offering a host of community events from wine and art evenings to book clubs and storytelling.

The Gabardine Bar is named after the famous trench coat made by world-wide fashion brand Burberry, whose first shop opened in Basingstoke in 1856.

The new venue opened in London Street at the Top of Town earlier this month and is described as offering “a unique experience, a place to enjoy freshly made coffee, wines, cocktails, craft beers, local food produce and much more”

It will also host various events including art and wine evenings, book clubs and language lessons.

Its website says: “Families are always welcome; we will also have storytelling afternoons for the children to enjoy whilst you relax.”

On Sundays, live acoustic music will be played at the bar at lunchtime, while Thursdays is cocktail night when customers can enjoy free tapas between 6pm and 8pm.

Its tapas selection includes calamari, marmite potatoes, plant based meatballs, and sweet potato falafels.

The Gabardine, which has just received a five-star hygiene rating, also offers breakfast, paninis and sandwiches for lunch, and a selection of cakes or afternoon tea.

The bar will also be available to rent for private functions and have a meeting room and printing facilities.

It is set to give a jobs boost for the town, with the owner of the new venue employing staff to join the team, including a mixologist bar tender.