The Coombe Cellars Devon, Coombe in Teignhead

I was seriously looking for the hidden cameras during my experience in this establishment because the host was so rude I thought I had stumbled into a reality tv or prank show. On arrival at 6pm the place had about six customers in total, and myself, partner, two five year olds, one 12 yr old and the grandparents sat outside to enjoy the river. Our drinks were massively overpriced, �7.20 for two glasses of wine, and the service frosty.

The owner or host came outside and began to put down all the large parasols even though we were sheltering from the rain. We moved to inside which seats several hundred but was empty, and sat at a table by the window. The host then came over and made a fuss that one of our children was sat behind us drawing a picture. He was unceremoniously removed as the table was needed!?!? Our glasses were then hurriedly collected before we had finished, and we were starting to get the hint, but subtlety vanished altogether when a junior member of staff came and told us that our table would need to be vacated if a diner wanted it. Still, all around us was empty and we had spent a lot of money on drinks. Our children were sat quietly with us, drawing pictures.

Before the hour was up we were literally hounded out of this practically empty pub, and my parents who are in their sixties had been looking at the menu and planning to stay for dinner, but changed their minds and went on elsewhere.

There is a sign outside saying 'Welcome'.... what a joke! For all the fancy decor the staff and owner are simply rude. If tables are reserved for diners only then that should be made clear, but paying customers should not be treated like rubbish, no matter how pretty the view. My advice, go down the river to Shaldon where there are plenty of super friendly alternatives who will be pleased to see you.

28 Jul 2008 20:08