Sopwell House - a hotel, spa and eatery on the edge of St Albans - has renovated and reopened its cocktail bar under a new name.

The 'Octagon Bar' sits in the most historic part of the house, the first mention of which dates back to 1603.

Omboo, a new Asian restaurant, has also recently opened at the house.

Herts Advertiser: The different textures and colours of the bar reflect the colours of the Octagon Bar's cocktails.The different textures and colours of the bar reflect the colours of the Octagon Bar's cocktails. (Image: Pearce Bates)

The Herts Advertiser visited the Octagon Bar and spoke with general manager Angelina Chua about the refurbishment.

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Speaking of the reason for the change, Angelina began: "The bar was due for an update to tie in with the refurbishment of the restaurant and the launch of Omboo as a modern Asian alternative to the Brasserie (the second of Sopwell House's two restaurants).

Herts Advertiser: The Octagon bar is themed after an octagonal-shaped room at its centre.The Octagon bar is themed after an octagonal-shaped room at its centre. (Image: Pearce Bates)

"Having a place for guests dining in both restaurants to have pre-dinner drinks or relax after a meal is very important for us to offer a complete dining experience.

"This was a complete revamp of the bar; rather than a ubiquitous hotel bar that is often soulless, we now have the Octagon Bar with its own identity and branding."

Herts Advertiser: Angelina explained how hours of work goes into designing each cocktail at the bar.Angelina explained how hours of work goes into designing each cocktail at the bar. (Image: Pearce Bates)

The cocktail bar itself is named after an octagonal-shaped room that sits in its centre.

Much of the theming for the bar revolves around this shape, and the history of the site.

Herts Advertiser: The Octagon Bar is situated in the most historic part of the house.The Octagon Bar is situated in the most historic part of the house. (Image: Pearce Bates)

Asked about the design of the bar, Angelina continued: "We had a brainstorming session to create a concept brief of how we envision the Octagon Bar.

"This was carefully tied in with the design of the bar - the different textures and colours - which also ties in to the different textures and flavours of our cocktails."

Along with the new Omboo and Octagon Bar, Sopwell House's bedrooms and Brasserie will soon undergo a "revamping".

Herts Advertiser: Omboo has also recently opened at Sopwell House.Omboo has also recently opened at Sopwell House. (Image: Pearce Bates)

"I think it's very important to stay current; in between major refurbishment hat we have done over the past 12 months and the coming year, it is imperative that we refresh and update, so to keep the interest of our guests.

Herts Advertiser: Sopwell House's bedrooms and Brasserie are next to be upgraded.Sopwell House's bedrooms and Brasserie are next to be upgraded. (Image: Google Maps)

"I hope that regulars will be excited to see different aspects of Sopwell House whenever they visit."

Herts Advertiser: Sopwell House's general manager, Angelina Chua.Sopwell House's general manager, Angelina Chua. (Image: Roche Communications)