THERE is 'something for everyone' at Hawkes House in Thornbury.


Owners James Murray, 29, and Simon Extance, 32, have been running the friendly neighbourhood cafe and bar for nearly two years in the centre of the town.


Visitors are entertained by a great selection of books and board games alongside their food and drinks while popular jazz nights bring live music from local bands and musicians to St Mary’s Street twice a month.


James primarily runs Hawkes House while Simon is usually based at their sister-bar, Theoc House, in Tewkesbury.


James said the Thornbury bar is community-based which has resulted in lots of loyal customers who keep coming back.


“We aim for a relaxed and informal environment, and want to keep everyone happy,” he said.


“We both previously worked for chains but wanted to branch out and do our own thing. Hawkes has become very popular – we’ve had to extend the kitchen and outside areas to cope with the demand, especially at peak times.


“We’re an old-school bar, with something for everyone.”


The bar also hosts unique ‘Grave Talk’ events, which aim to make talking about death and funerals easier, in conjunction with Thornbury Parish Church.


The first event was a huge success in August, and they already have the next two lined up later this month and in early November.


James added: “Part of our role as a neighbourhood cafe bar is to provide spaces for community open up and discuss an issue which can be a difficult to broach with family and friends.”