A pub famous for its cultural heritage is to undergo an extensive refurbishment aimed to strengthening the local economy and bringing the community together.

The locally listed Larkshall Pub, owned by the Spirit Pub Company, is one of 20 pubs in the London area to benefit from the 'Golden Oak Inn' redesign this side of Christmas.

On December 1, the pub will close its doors to the public as workmen start the £250,000 renovation.

The Waltham Forest heritage site which dates back to 1890 is Chingford’s oldest surviving pub-converted farmhouse and still contains timber frames dating back to the late 16th century.

Some of the original features including the wooden beams and staircase are protected but the furniture including the outdated carpet and bar stools will all be ripped out and changed.

A bar area by the entrance will be knocked out to provide an open-plan seating and dining area and the Larkshall's traditional green and cream colour scheme will be replaced by shades of grey, cream and ivory.

The children’s play area will remain but its current patio-style beer garden will be swapped with concrete slabs to provide extra seating and more opportunities for outdoor events.

The 'new look' pub offering better quality food and drink will open on December 12.

General manager Scott Bailey, 25, has said it will not become a gastro pub and will remain a 'drinkers’ pub’ retaining its gaming machines and playing sports.

He said: "Some people like the old retro style, but in this day and age now pubs do need to be brought up to modern standards.

"The design however will be tailored to the history of the pub and will include some quirky farmhouse-style bric-a-brac on the walls.

"People that own pubs in the area feel there is a good opportunity to be had right now. 

"With everything surrounding the pub industry these days, to see a company investing money is good news for the community and the area of Chingford."

The Larkshall is one of three pubs in the E4 postcode area to undergo a major refurbishment in 2014. 

The others include The Dovecote, formally called The Sirloin in Friday Hill and The Royal Oak in Hale End Road.