BITE user comments - Paris_Hilton
Comments by Paris_Hilton
The Cross Keys, Norton Fitzwarren
CAMRA award awards (?) if the beer is good, they don't take account of kids, toilets, food, decor, carpet...............
By the way its still closed due to the flooding in November
16 Feb 2013 15:15
I understand a small fire at the weekend was quickly extinguished and did not interrupt beer sales at this pretty good pub
16 Feb 2013 15:11
Note to Johnny G. BITE stands for BEER in the evening, not Bouilabasse (sic) in the evening. What was the beer like? usually its ok.
16 Feb 2013 15:09
Trying hard, not much idea about beer, uninspiring section, including the ubiquitous Doom bar, but the punters love it. Turn the heating up!
16 Feb 2013 14:51
No I haven't stopped. I'm still here and this place is still bad.
9 Nov 2012 13:09
I understand that the guy who ran both the Chapel in Cotford St Luke and the Notley Arms in Monksilver before they went bust is now running this pub. His delusions of grandeur will ruin this once popular pub and ultimately close it. I would'nt be surprised if it closes within 12 months.
9 Nov 2012 13:01
The Chapel is re-opening on Friday 16 November, under new ownership. This time it will be a proper village pub rather than a trumped up 'fine-dining gastro-pub', so will be much more popular with the locals, who do actually visit pubs. Best of luck to the new owners, and see you on Friday.
9 Nov 2012 08:52
The Holywell Inn, Holywell Lake
Under new ownership - former landlord of the Martlett Inn Langford Budville
23 Sep 2011 10:36
The Lethbridge Arms, Bishops Lydeard
The lethbridge Arms has re-opened again as a village local, with pool tabe and juke box in the old public bar, a restaraunt at one end and a sloon in between. The garden could use a spade and the bar could use some better beer, only the Otter Ale and ever-present Doom Bar being available; the Otter was ok, if a little warm.
Early days; lets hope it improves and gets back to how it was a couple or three years ago.
11 Jul 2011 13:36
Pleasant village pub cum restaurant in a pleasant village.
Log fires in winter an d sunny garden in the summer make a pleasant setting to try the 2 real ales always available; yesterday (Sunday) they had Quantock Ale and Quantock Sundowner, both were pleasant .
Overall, pleasant .
23 May 2011 15:57
The Bird in Hand, Bishop's Lydeard
YoYo, this is now one of 2 pubs in the village and of the greatest interest to the ale drinker. They always have 4 on the go, 2 from Cotleigh plus 2 others from local breweries. yesterday the Cotligh Nutcracker and Quantock Will's Neck were very good.
23 May 2011 15:54
Closed - eventually. I knew it would, the arrogant landlord does'nt have a clue how to run a pub. Great shame for the village.
10 May 2011 14:49
I thought I had been short-changed.
"How much was that pint of Hopping Hare?", I enquired.
"�3.75" came the reply?
�3.75 for a pint in Taunton.
I won't be rushing back in there for a while.
6 Apr 2011 19:08
Visited for the first time this weekend as the Halfway House has just been voted Somerset CAMRA pub of the year for 2011.
Was not disappointed. Proper old fashioned pub with wodden benches, stone floors, log fires, beer and thats about it. My other half commented that it was noisy, but the noise was conversation, people talking rather than tvs, music and fruit machines, the sign of a good pub I told her.
8 real ales on offer staright from the barrels which are stored in a cellar, back room rather than sitting in the warm bar.
I agree, yet again, with Dr Pangloss about the Hooray Henrys, all green wellies and Range Rovers; most of them are very rude.
28 Mar 2011 10:26
Popular riverside pub by the bridge (you don't say) in Dulverton. Exmoor Ales available (Ale and Gold) also Otter Ale, but, surprisingly and most welcome, there was no Doom Bar; The Exmoor Ale was fine if a little cold. Busy Saturday lunchtime crowd; tasty cider chutney in my cheese baguette.
28 Feb 2011 11:09
A converted bakery which now advertises itself as a Dining Room and Public Bar. There seems to be an emphasis on food; the menu appears to be tempting without being pretentious like lots of such places these days. Three St Austell Ales (slightly unimaginative)all from the barrel behind the bar: Dartmoor, Tribute and HSD. The Tribute was fine, but served in a Magners glass which I don't particularly like; I was drinking it at the tables outside and passers by may have thought I was drinking 'cider' from Ireland (which has such a tradition of producing the drink, doesn't it!).
The interior is comfortable with a log fire fashioned from a beer barrel and the usual dead animals and hunting scenes on the wall so favoured by folk from Exmoor.
28 Feb 2011 11:08
I paid another visit here as I had heard that the landlady had been advised on how to keep real ale without possessing a cellar. I don't know who offered the advice but it was obvious they don't know what they are doing.
On entry, and being hit squarely in the face by the smell from the bogs, I oredered a pint of Moor Revivial from the unimaginative selection which comprised Otter Amber, Exmoor Gold, Bath Gem (ok) and Cotleigh something. Someone should tell Justin at Moor, as it was awful, too cold (the opposite extreme to usual) flat, bland, watery: I drank up and left without trying something different.
28 Feb 2011 11:05
Visited on Sunday lunchtime after a walk up the hill to the Triscombe Stone and back. Very different barn-conversion-type pub that seems to concentrate on food but keep a selction of good real ales instead. MacOtter (otter Ale), Dartmoor Legend and another with the pump clip turned round (would'nt be surpreised if it was the ever-present Doom Bar). The Legend was finebut, as usual with pubs in this area, some variation in the ales on offer would be nice .
You enter the front door and ascend the stairs to the main bar and restaurant (via a stair-lift if you need to!!. There is a second entrance round the back directly into the garden and the bar.
Plenty of diners, it seemed very popular. Very pleasant, I will visit again
25 Jan 2011 12:28
This pub has recently changed hands for about the 5th time in the 12 years that I have lived in Taunton. Popped in on Wednesday night to be confronted with an empty bar; the landlady and barmaid seemed very surprised to see us. Three handpumps available but disappointing range, comprising Butcombe, the ever present Doom Bar and a spare. Two pints of Butcombe were ordered, after pulling through the new barrel, my drink (the second one served) was fine, however my associate remarked that the quality of his was poor. Worth another try in busier times perhaps?
15 Jan 2011 13:36
Visited for the first time since the re-branding and agree with Pangloss; a lick of paint and some new wallpaper and that's it.
It must have been pension day when we visited as all the local pensioers were in taking advantage of the �4.75 carvery lunch. Not being a fan of stewed overcooked vegetables I did not join them for lunch. However, and to be more positive for hoonkerama, the beer selection was ok, Otter Ale, Tribute and Exmoor Gold; the Gold was fine and the glass was clean.
Overall a slight improvement on the Royal Oak, but I'm afraid I won't be rushing back.
15 Jan 2011 13:32
I've heard that the lease was sold without the current tenants knowledge and that the newly refurbished ring o bells will soon close
9 Jan 2011 18:57
WTF? �15 entrance fee on new years eve!!! absolutely ridiculous; I'm surprised they had any punters in at all. Beer range is unambitious, with the ever present Doom Bar and Otter Bitter + 2 other equally unambitious guests, usually Cotleigh. Entrance strewn with fag ends and other litter. I am starting to think that the landlord has lost the plot.
6 Jan 2011 12:41
I know ,Dr_P, I know, but having never ventured in here before I thought I would give it a go. Big mistake, so I posted here to warn others, as you say, to avoid.
22 Nov 2010 11:21
I visited this pub on Saturday night as there was a beer festival advertised. The girl behind the bar was completely clueless and had to be shown how to pour a pint directly from the barrel. The Quantock Sunraker I ordered was a bit lively and after pouring several pints of froth and not knowing what to do next she asked an equally clueless barman what she should do. Equally cluless barman then decided the only thing to do was to pour said froth into one pint pot. Cloudy, short of a pint measure and obviously undrinkable to anyone who knows what they are doing, it was served it up to me. I politely declined and ordered a Teinworthy Scrumdown, which was far too warm; well it would be as it was being stored in the middle of the bar witout any attempt to keep it cool. I finished my pint and left.
Note to Landlord - if you wish to sell real ale, please instruct your staff on how to keep and serve it. If you don't please stick to the keg stuff that most of your customers seem to prefer.
22 Nov 2010 10:56
The Cross Keys, Norton Fitzwarren
You may be correct Chelseajay. However, I was in the pub around 2.30 in the afternoon and, as I say, there were two beers on, the topsail not being one of them.
As for being completely transformed, are you out of your mind? It looked exactly the same as when I ventured in a couple of weeks ago.
15 Nov 2010 17:05
The Cross Keys, Norton Fitzwarren
Almost dead on a Friday afternoon.
On enquiring I was informed that two of the four beers being offered were not available, I thought I had mistakenly wandered into a 'spoons!!
Moor Illusion and Theakstons Old Peculier WERE available. The Illusion was ok.
13 Nov 2010 14:45
Very good country pub with a fine collection of pump clips showing all the beer on offer (though unfortunately not all at the same time).
3 beers always available, local Moor and Cottage beers on my visit, and not a drop of Doom Bar in sight.
13 Nov 2010 14:34
I have to disagrre with Cornish Blonde and mim. Locals can't complain about incomers causing high property prices, forcing locals out of the property market, when it was the LOCALS who took the money by selling houses to incomers at high prices in the first place.
I also agree with John Bonser, the lack of competition means that the Ship does'nt have to try hard, and from my experience they hardly try at all, just take the money from visitors from the more affluent parts of the counrty.
I see a patetrn emerging mim.
1 Nov 2010 12:35
The Port William Inn, Tintagel
I've been visiting this pub for years ever since holidays in Cornwall as a child.; nothing changes, however its certainly busier than it used to be then but you can say that about the whole of North Cornwall. Location fantastic, beer ok, (the St Austell range, Tribute, Proper Job, HSD on when I visited), service poor..
Incidently, it was in this pub that I first came across space invaders as a 14 year old circa 1981.
29 Oct 2010 14:16
Port Gaverne Hotel, Port Gaverne
One of my favourite pubs in Cornwall due to its location and history. Only downside is the Sharp's beer which I don't find appealing at all. Luckily they had some Tribute which was fine.
29 Oct 2010 14:11
The beer appears to have improved - my copule of pints of Proper Job were, erm, proper job. Sadly the glasses were not the cleanest I have seen and I had to ask for a top up on one of my pints which was met with a look that could turn the beer sour.
The bar still closes for the afternoon during a sunny weekend in half term.
29 Oct 2010 14:09
After a couple of weeks with some improved local ales it seems we are back to the usual Doom Bar/Flowers Original/Bass. A major step backwards I'm afraid.
15 Oct 2010 12:29
Will be very interesting to see what real local ale Mr Wood will be offering with or without his food.
15 Oct 2010 12:27
The Duke of Wellington, Minehead
PS, message for Gillhalfpint, they have reverted to dumping the toast and preseves on top of the breakfast plate again.
14 Sep 2010 13:45
The Duke of Wellington, Minehead
Visited for breakfast before last weekend's beer festival.
As with all spoons, dreadfully slow service, only one girl serving at any one time. The Guy in front of me in the queue wanted no mushrooms and extra egg, or something, with his breakfast. What a palaver, the girl couldn't work the till and the duty manager (who was as grumpy as he was when he worked in the Perkin Warbeck in Taunton) got involved. By the time it was my turn to order, I needed lunch as well as breakfast. What happened to the good old fashioned pen and paper?
At least the beer and surroundings were ok, by Spoons standards. Not the best pub in Minehead, try Steamers Bar.
14 Sep 2010 13:42
Agree that this is expensive, �6.20 for 2 pints of Exmoor Gold and Tribute. Other beers include the usual Doom Bar and one other I can't recall.
Reasonable enough if not a little overfurbished. Not a bad garden hidden out back
14 Sep 2010 13:23
Surprised to see some half decent beer on draft (Bays Gold), but very cold. There are better pubs in Minehead
14 Sep 2010 13:21
The Holman Clavel Inn, Culmhead
I was surprised to hear the other day that this pub may be closing........if the previous report is true I am no longer surprised
14 Sep 2010 13:18
I hear the Royal Oak is soon to close for a major re-fit and re-open as 'The Orchard'. It won't be any worse than it is now............it can't be.
8 Sep 2010 12:53
Closed - I'm surprised it has stayed open for as long as it has. Potential to be a great pub
8 Sep 2010 12:49
Another Taunton pub that has closed. The good ones are still open however!
8 Sep 2010 12:47
Rumour has it that the beer here may soon improve drastically.............. I wait with baited breath
28 Aug 2010 15:56
Re-opened and selling St Austell Ales, a strange choice as there is a St Austell House the other end of town! (The Racehorse)
27 Jul 2010 12:39
This place must have closed 5 times in the 11 years I have lived in Taunton. Will these people ever realise that Taunton doesn't need another youngsters theme pub, just somewhere for the older person to enjoy some good ale, something that is very rare in Taunton
27 Jul 2010 12:38
The Globe is more of a restaurant than a village pub. Last time I ate there there was a card on the table inviting the diner to nominate it for thr which restaurant of the year!!! Its not quite that standard. Having said that, the food is ok and there is a good selection of usually 4 local ales such as Cotleigh, Quantock, Otter, Exmoor, O'Hanlons, the compulsory and now becoming very dull Doom Bar, and some less common ales form farther afield.
22 Apr 2010 12:55
Its the Lib Dem HQ actually, but thats beside the point - it's no longer a pub!!
22 Apr 2010 09:38
Excellent back street local 200yards from Chippenham station, great place to wait for the train. 5 real ales on, Cornish Coaster, London Pride, two others I can't remember and Summer Lightning, which was my choice.
Busy enough on a Monday afternoon with several locals at the bar. It appears to be the headquarters of the Chippenham folk festival and morris dancers judging by the photos on the wall.
Well worth a visit if the train is late
14 Apr 2010 17:11
Visited for the first time last week. Very nice pub in pleaseant village with 4 ales, Otter Bitter, Wadworth 6X, another Wadworth which I can't remember and, yep, you guessed it, Doom Bar. Needless to say I avoided the latter and had a very nice, if not slightly cold, Otter.
14 Apr 2010 17:08
The Rose and Crown, Limpley Stoke
Appears to have changed hands recently. In my opinion the food is not as good as it was the last time I visited in November. And please be more creative with the selection of ales. Doom Bar? not again? Can't drinkers have a better choice than Doom Bar in every pub in Southern England??
14 Apr 2010 17:05
Bath Ales House just off the main streets in Bath. The beer was well kept, the Gem being delicious. I did'nt partake but the sunday roast looked very tasty. Well worth a vist
14 Apr 2010 17:02
The Volunteer Riflemans Arms, Bath
Very nice pint of Abbey Bellringer whilst reading the papers on Sunday afternoon. Busty with both regulars and visitors. Recommend a visit
14 Apr 2010 17:00
Closed at 2.30 on Sunday Afternoon. Why? Bath was packed with thirsty People, Went to the Volunteer Riflemans instead.
14 Apr 2010 16:58
I'd like to know whats going on here . The other night the only choice of ale was Draught Bass, the ubiquotous (?) Doom Bar, and Flowers Original?!?!
Why can't we have some good local stuff like Taunton, Quantock, Moor, Glastonbury, RCH etc etc
14 Apr 2010 16:57
The Lethbridge Arms, Bishops Lydeard
Opening again soon I hear - lets hope it gets back to how it was a few years ago.
14 Apr 2010 16:52
Dave2112, the beer brewed for the pub is called, unsurprisingly, Greentree
14 Mar 2010 16:32
The Argyll Arms, Oxford Circus
It smells like the toilets could do with agood clean. Popped in yesterday for a quick one and walked out again - it stank
27 Feb 2010 16:36
Three very nice pints of Exminster and Topsham Ferryman the other night; but another place where a greater variety other than Otter and Sharps would be very welcome.
24 Feb 2010 12:23
The White Horse Inn, Bradford on Tone
Still the same three ales on the bar - very lazy - come on, sell something different and you might get some more punters through the door
24 Feb 2010 12:21
The Farmers Arms, Combe Florey
Visited on Saturday lunchtime after a walk in the snow on the Quantocks.
4 handpumps - Exmoor Ale, Exmoor Gold, Cotleigh Tawny and St Austell HSD. Why do all the pubs in this area all sell Exmoor, Cotleigh, St Austell, Otter zzzzzzzzzz. They're very nice but why can't someone ring the changes and get something different, there are plenty of good local breweries in Somerset and Devon .
Anyway, the Exmoor Gold was fine; service ok but silent. A few lunch time diners sitting by the log fire - very quaint!
24 Feb 2010 12:17
Renamed the Castle Green Inn and much better. 4 handpumps selling real ales. There is a questionairre on the bar asking which beers/breweries the punters would like them to sell - lets see if the management take any notice as Taunton needs a change from the Exmoor, Cotleigh, Otter, St Austell and Sharps etc breweries.
24 Feb 2010 12:02
Poor for Bath. 4 ales on pump but not well kept, my Timothy Taylor Landlord was awful. I thought it was trying to hard to be a traditional British pub to attract in the tourists; however the tourist would do better by trying the Old Green Tree, Raven or Star. I will not return
5 Dec 2009 17:01
Sunday lunch-time, walked in, walked straight out,. Full of parents and toddlers eating burger and chips. Didn't even hang around to see what beer was on. Have visited several times in the past couple of years and am not at all impressed. Poor for Bath
5 Dec 2009 16:57
The Volunteer Riflemans Arms, Bath
Third pub visited on a mini-crawl on Sunday lunchtime. Like most pubs in Bath, it is small but was fairly busy with 4 ales available. Went for Otter Amber and very nice it was too. Not my favourite pub in Bath but by no means is it the worst.
5 Dec 2009 16:55
Popped in on Sunday Lunchtime. Much busier than the Old Green Tree, had to wait about 10 mins to be served as the single numpty behind the downstairs bar seemed to be on a go-slow. Settled for a pint of Raven, an excellent, strong, dark Ale specally brewed for the pub. Others available included Raven Gold, a fruit porter and a mystery Ale which the barman didn't know. Food was flying out of the kitchen, the Pieminister pies appearing to be very popular. One of the better pubs in Bath.
5 Dec 2009 16:51
Popped in on Sunday Lunchtime. In my opinion one of the best pubs in Bath, but very quiet, 2 or 3 what appeared to be regulars at the bar and an old couple in the back room. Ales available included Exmoor, Cotleigh and Cottage, all local so went for a 1/2 of the superb Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby Mild. �2.90 a pint is not expensive in this part of the world. Will always return. Excellent.
5 Dec 2009 16:46
The Lethbridge Arms, Bishops Lydeard
Closed and acquired by enterprise inns - I'm not surprised.
28 Nov 2009 09:34
Just to correct ETA, the building was the chapel for the former Tone Vale Hospital - Musgrove Park is 6 miles away in the centre of Taunton.
There are always 3 ales on here, usally Doom Bar, Otter Bitter and a 'guest' from breweries such as Cotleigh, Exeter, O'Hanlons, Exmoor. Hobgoblin was on last night . The quality of the ales is sometimes inconsistent, but usually perfectly drinkable.
6 Nov 2009 11:21
Popped in for a coffee with Mrs Hilton during a recent shopping trip thinking it was a cafe and was surprised to see a handpump on the bar selling one of the Cotleigh brews Decided to stick with the coffee as the pump obviously hadn't been used for while so was not confident that the beer would meet my usual high standard.
Service left a lot to be desired too, the manager/barman/waiter believed that filling up the salt and pepper pots, or whatever he was doing, was a higher priority than taking some money off a customer.
Positives: ok coffee
Negatives: Poor standard beer, poor service
30 Oct 2009 16:29
One of only two good traditional pubs in Taunton, though located in the rougher end of town. Popped in early last night between the railway station and home. A few drinkers in the bar or hiding away in the small cosy rooms at the back. The three ales on the bar served by gravity were Doom Bar, Otter Amber and Cotleigh 25. Went for the Cotleigh and it was fine, if a little warm (due to it being behind the bar rather than in a cellar).
Plenty of local cider available if you are that way inclined and a local told me that the pies are the best in town, if not in the County.
Well worth a visit.
30 Oct 2009 15:37
Stopped in here rather than New Street Station whilst waiting for a train home. Glad I did, no music or telly, but 16 real ales to chose from, some local, some from further afield. The Black Country BFG and mild were excellent.
9 Oct 2009 11:30
Decent enough village pub with a big emphasis on food.
4 real ales however: Cotleigh 25, Otter Bitter, Dartmoor Bitter and Proper job. I went for the Cotleigh and it was very nice.
6 Sep 2009 15:01
The Old Custom House, Langport
Now been bought by the church. Not sure if they intend to sell beer or use it as a bible class
3 Sep 2009 13:53
Royal Seven Stars Hotel, Totnes
Just had a very refreshing pint of Bays Gold whilst sitting out the front watching the world go by.
Typical town centre hotel catering for the lunching shoppers and holidaymakers. Four real Ales available: today it is Bays Gold, Jail Ale, London Pride and another I can't remember.
25 Aug 2009 15:44
Nice restaurant in a lovely picturesque village but not a pub for the serious beer drinker. The Exmoor Ale and Gold was fine (albeit a bit unadventurous) but the atmosphere on Sunday lunchtime reminded me of a chapel of rest.
4 Aug 2009 12:31
The White Horse Inn, Bradford on Tone
I can't agree with Cordelia - all the character has not been ripped out. The bar billiards table has gone, the walls have had a lick of paint and some of the furniture has been replaced. It's still a good locals village pub which sells good food and drinks in the bar, restaurant or lovely beer garden.
Having said that, the choice of ales has not changed since re-opening day (Cotleigh Tawny, Otter Ale or Exmoor Ale). Come on, what about ringing the changes and offering a weekly guest ale?????
29 Jun 2009 15:10
A sign outside informs the passing motorist that the establishment is now under new management. Could be interesting! Will report back in due course.
29 Jun 2009 14:56
Picturesque country pub on the banks of the River Exe on Exmoor. Greene King House but in addition to the usual IPA and Speckled Hen there was some tasty Hardys and Hansons Ale of offer.
Excellent place to spend a couple of hours on a sunny Sunday afternoon.
22 Jun 2009 13:44
Used to be the best pub in Okey, though that was 20 years ago
8 May 2009 12:16
Disappointing. When I returned my wife's drink to the bar due to the dirty glass, I didn't receive an apology, just a curse under the breath from the barmaid as if I had a cheek to ask for a clean glass.
I received a second drink but that glass was not too clean either.
18 Apr 2009 13:42
The White Horse Inn, Bradford on Tone
Its not tied to any brewery, its owned by Enterprise Inns. The lights were on when I drove past the other day, so it may re-open any day. Good news.
7 Mar 2009 15:13
The White Horse Inn, Bradford on Tone
Rumour has it that this pub will re-open in a couple of weeks with new tenants - watch this space. I hope so; it will be an absolute shame if this place never opens its doors again to tthe paying drinker
21 Feb 2009 15:40
I wouldn't walk past here to go to the nearby pub Dr Pangloss mentions
24 Jan 2009 15:22
Well I finally went to the Bridge when it was open and it was worth the wait; what a fantastic old fashioned traditional ale house. One of the best pubs I have ever visited.
Six or seven real ales were on the menu here; i tried the specially brewed 111 ale on draft and took a bottle home for later. 111 refers to the 111th anniversary of the same family running the establishment (brewed by Branoc and bottled by O'Hanlons. the Landlord informed me that they are considering doing another anniversary brew for 120 years.
After buying our drinks and being shown into a small snug opposite the bar (hatch), the landlord walked in to enquire who in the room had never visited the pub before. Those of us who raised our hands were then treated to a guided tour with explanantions on how the building had evolved over the years (the original inn dates back to 1512).
Will definately return.
10 Dec 2008 16:48
The Lamb and Flag, Blagdon Hill
I agree with all that has been previously said. What they don't mention is the large secluded garden at the back with long views to the Mendips and Bristol channel
20 Nov 2008 14:42
I used this pub quite often when I first moved to Taunton, Palmers beer was always available and always good. Have'nt been back for a good few years now.........will investigate and report back soon.
20 Nov 2008 14:34
I've never had a bad pint at the Anchor. The Landlord always sells local beers eg, Branscombe, Otter, Cotleigh. It has a fine garden and terrace which is a great sun-trap in the summer, real log fires in the winter.
15 Nov 2008 16:29
The Lethbridge Arms, Bishops Lydeard
Paid a return visit on Sunday Lunchtime to see if the business has picked up again following the change in management; it has'nt.
There were more staff than punters when we left at around 2.30pm, not surprising due to the unwelcoming nature of the landlady and other staff. The otter Ale which I purchased was not very well kept either, probably the first one of the day judging by the lack of customers.
I won't be back for a few months (assuming its still open in a few months). Shame!!
27 Oct 2008 14:25
The Royal Clarence Hotel, Burnham on Sea
Former home of RCH brewery (the barman thinks it has moved to nearby Sandford), this pleasant enough pub sits on Burnham sea front a stones throw from the peir. Only one real ale on when I visted recently - an acceptable pint of local Butcombe bitter. (No RCH beers though??)
There were a few drinkers in, ok atmosphere, all-in-all, not too bad.
23 Oct 2008 11:49
I went in here recently and after waiting 15 minutes to be served I went back out the door and into the black horse next door. The black horse, for a pub with its reputation, wasn't bad at all - at least I got served !!!!!!!
18 Oct 2008 16:32
The Square and Compass, Worth Matravers
3 October 2008 - The Square and Compass, Dorest is crowned Cider Pub of The Year
5 Oct 2008 18:22
Went in here after an unfreindly welcome in the Two Brewers - much better. Good food, great real ale, freindly staff and lunchtime office workers
5 Oct 2008 18:08
Slightly old fashioned, slightly shabby, but I like it. Real ale, great views out to sea, large cliff-top garden. Some of the garden has fallen into the sea, so if you want to visit, be quick, the pub may be next.
5 Oct 2008 17:05
I hear that the landlord has built his new house on what used to be the lovely garden. If this is true its a shame as it was a great place to take the family. There was a big emphasis on food but its also a good locals pub with generous choice of beer.
9/10 with the garden, 7/10 without.............
............Make that the EX-landlord
5 Oct 2008 10:14
Sadly, my pint of Tinners from the barrel behind the bar was flat and soapy, so I tried a pint of Tribute from the hand-pump instead - this was only just drinkable. Not sure if this is a reflection on the pub or on St Austell Ales in general.
The bar closed at 3pm on Saturday afternoon too. we were lucky it was a dry afternoon and we could sit in the lovely garden
29 Sep 2008 14:17
Blodwin, are you the barmaid who served me my short pint? or are you the landlady? I can't think of any other reason to be so loyal.
I stand by my previous review, there is a lot that can be improved at the Royal Oak, it has great potential.
And actually, the lipstick was not my colour, it clashed with my dress
29 Sep 2008 13:50
The Seven Stars Inn, Okehampton
The seven stars was an excellent locals pub with three ales and local cider when it was run by my family nearly twenty years ago. Following this it became more of a resturant but following another change of ownership I hear it has gone back to being a proper pub again. I must go back soon.
29 Sep 2008 11:13
The Rising Sun Inn, West Bagborough
I made the same mistake as BobOs - now I take two or three pints from a good selection of local ales as refreshment after my walk on the Quantocks.
I have never eaten there but the food looks good too.
29 Sep 2008 10:00
YoYo, this building used to be Hankridge Farm House before the retail park was built. Once inside it feels like on old country pub as you say, I quite like it, good ales too.
29 Sep 2008 09:51
The Lethbridge Arms, Bishops Lydeard
New owners and gone downhill rapidly; it was virtually empty on Sunday lunchtime where six months ago the place would have been packed. Its a shame because this was a great locals pub.
On a more positive note, they still have 3 good local real ales on the go.
29 Sep 2008 09:40
Ye Olde Coach and Horses Inn, Melton
This sounds like a kitchen nightmare for Gordon Ramsey to sort out
15 Sep 2008 14:59
The Admirals Landing, Bridgwater
Probably the best pub in Bridgwater (but thats not difficult)due to its location next to the docks. Courage Directors was the only available ale when I last visited - don't make a special journey.
15 Sep 2008 14:45
Fastjedi, if you are comparing this pub to the others in Bridgwater, then this really does have good food and good ale. If, however, you leave the insular fleapit that is Bridgwater and venture out into the wider world, you will realise that this is a truly awful pub.
15 Sep 2008 14:40
The Turf Locks Hotel, Exminster
Local Exminster and Topsham Ales and the tranquil location between the Exe Estuary and the Exeter Canal make this a great pub. I believe (though I may be wrong)that the Turfs is the only pub in the country where you cannot drive to.
15 Sep 2008 14:22
How this place rates 7/10 I dont know; I'd say its more like 2/10. Its a chain type pub offering no real ale except the usual Greene King and Old Speckled Hen served in these places. Caters for the Butlins and stag party crowds. Walk up the Hill to the Queen's Head.
15 Sep 2008 13:59
The Exmoor White Horse Inn, Exford
Full of the hunting, shooting, fishing types that frequent the village pubs in this part of the country.
I agree with BobOs, this pub could be a lot better than it is considering its location - don't make a special journey.
15 Sep 2008 13:55
I gave this pub another chance last weekend and went back in for a quick couple of pints - I wish I had'nt now. I was give a short measure with a generous helping of someone elses lipstick. I only had the one!!
15 Sep 2008 13:49
Just opened in the old hospital chapel in the village; tastefully done with many original features used in the rebuilding - the old altar is now the bar. Three hand pumps, Otter, Doom bar, Ferryman; food is reportedly good too, though I have'nt tried it yet.
On the downside, it is not yet finished outside; if you drove past you would not know it was a pub if you didn't know it was !??!?!!
It will be even better when it is finished
6 Sep 2008 15:03
The Victory Inn, Allerford Crossing
Bland decor and bland beer- there is only one thing to say about this pub - bland
23 Aug 2008 16:08
Its full of the Kensington-by-the-sea crowd who spoil Rock every summer. Not one for the true pub go-er.
23 Aug 2008 14:22
I hear that the landlord has built his new house on what used to be the lovely garden. If this is true its a shame as it was a great place to take the family. There was a big emphasis on food but its also a good locals pub with generous choice of beer.
9/10 with the garden, 7/10 without.
22 Aug 2008 14:20
Captaineric sums it up when he says the Grove is off the kids drinking circuit. I use this pub when in Exmouth for precisely that reason.
In my opinion, not one of Young's greatest but it's the best pub in Exmouth. I'll give it 7/10.
22 Aug 2008 14:12
I agree with fat_beer_badger. The White Hart has gone downhill since Marstons took over. There is a measly choice of ale.
22 Aug 2008 14:00
The Great Western Hotel, Exeter
Yes its a bit shabby but if you go into a pub for the beer rather than the decor, this is one for you.
There are 9-10 handpumps here with both local and further away ale. Well worth visiting if you are waiting for a train.
22 Aug 2008 13:53
I hope the carvery has improved under the new management. The only time I ate there I was presented with over cooked and cold food in a "restaurant" with far too many tables crammed in.
The ale is good though, the new owner has even introduced an annual beer festival in a tent in the garden.
22 Aug 2008 13:45
The Wyvern hosts a CAMRA beer festival every October and they always have a couple of guest real ales at the bar. Worth a visit if you like that kind of thing.
22 Aug 2008 13:34
There is a vast selection of local cider on offer here, 3 hand-pumps too. I thouroughly recommend it.
Taking a pee in the gents is a bit off-putting though; I got the feeling I was being watched through the window by the drinkers in the courtyard
22 Aug 2008 13:27
The Pitcher and Piano, Taunton
This used to be a half-decent place when it was the Old Library. Now it's heaven for those who like ice in their "cider" and expensive fizzy water sold as beer. Don't bother
22 Aug 2008 13:23
I'm slightly surprised at the prevoius comments. Ok, its not fantastic and I probably won't walk out of town to go there again, but it's not THAT bad!!
22 Aug 2008 13:19
I'd love to review this pub but when I dropped by at 3pm on a sunny Tuesday afternoon in August, it was closed. Shame, as I've heard may good things about it.
22 Aug 2008 12:37
I agree with the previous reviews, this is a great pub.
The Landlord is as eccentric as they come, but passionate about ales and certainly knows his stuff. Always a generous range of real ale, 6 to 8 hand pumps always on the go.
22 Aug 2008 12:34
The Double Locks is now owned by Youngs (should that be Wells and Youngs) but nothing has changed. Still a great oasis in the middle of one of Exeter's largest industrial estates. But don't let that put you off. There is always a generous selection of local ales, good food, warm cosy fires in the winter and the huge garden and canal frontage to enjoy in the summer. Make the effort to seek it out, real pub lovers won't be disappointed.
Proper Job!
22 Aug 2008 12:26
This used to be my local and was affectionatley known as the hash tree for obvious reasons, not that I participated in that kind of thing. I used it as they did the place up and always sold a superb pint of London Pride; I was weaned on the stuff.
A refurbishment turned the pool room into a Thai restaurant; not good, it was always empty.
I went back in recently after several years away, I probably won't make the effort again
22 Aug 2008 12:21
If you like your pubs to have tables full of half-eaten meals left around for hours, and long waits at the bar for an overly chilled pint, then this is your sort of pub. I don't, so I try to avoid it....I suggest you do too. Its a shame because they do stock some great guest beers.
Typical Wetherspoons, cheap and dirty
22 Aug 2008 12:16
I agree with YoYo re St Austell Ales. Still, the Racehorse is one of the two best pubs in Taunton along with the Plough down the other end of town. This pub has three bars, a conservatory type affair over the old yard, and a large beer garden which is a wonderful sanctuary away from the hordes of shoppers on a sunny afternoon........well worth a visit.
22 Aug 2008 12:10
The White Horse Inn, Bradford on Tone
Great little village pub with lovely garden, restaurant, skittles, and always 2 or 3 good ales on the go. Apparently Richard and Judy stop there for lunch on their way down to Cornwall, but don't let that put you off.
22 Aug 2008 12:00
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The Cornubia, Bristol
Still very good, Phil certainly knows how to keep beer
16 Feb 2013 15:20