AN historic but long-disused inn is to be given a new lease of life – as the latest Manx National Heritage-owned restaurant.

Work has begun on restoring the Rushen Abbey Hotel to its former glory.

The former hotel and pub has lain empty and increasingly derelict for years despite being next to the medieval abbey, one of the Island's most popular heritage attractions.

But now MNH has brought in contractors to carry out the first phase of the building's repair and restoration.

When complete, the aim is to open it as a heritage site restaurant for use not only by visitors to Rushen Abbey over the summer season but all year round.

Overlooking the ford across the Silverburn, it should prove a popular attraction.

It will join MNH's growing portfolio of heritage site restaurants that includes Niarbyl, the Sound, the Village Tea Rooms at Cregneash, the Bay Room at the Manx Museum and the Grove Conservatory at Ramsey.

Work on phase one of the scheme is expected to continue throughout this year and will involve exterior repairs and redecoration together with extensive interior refurbishment and fittings.

MNH is now actively seeking a business partner to provide high quality catering and hospitality once the renovation works are complete.