The Masons Arms, Seaton

This is a classic picture postcard country pub set in a lovely location. Well maintained, clean and with friendly and helpful staff. However, it seems to have lost the village pub atmosphere for a corporate one. Inside there are two bar areas either side of the serving area, with further dining areas to the right. Food plays a big part, but St. Austell IPA, Tribute, Summa That, Tinners and Proper Job were all available on hand pump. I tried the IPA which was fine. It seems to be busy most of the time, (they do have several cottage rooms to stay in,) and is worth a visit.

Masons Arms pages at the St Austell brewery site - www.staustellbrewery.co.uk

Masons Arms pages at the St Austell brewery site - www.staustellbrewery.co.uk

The epitome of a country pub. A stone build, it is detached, occupying two buildings, with a thatched porch and a beer patio at the front and i think, round the back as well. It has climbing plants up the walls - its all so very English! The interior has two rooms, a bar and a lounge/dining area, for the food it serves. It is white rendered, with what you would expect, lots of old pictures, memorabilia, an open fire, giving a nice wood burning smell. A central bar serves both rooms. It was very friendly and packed full of a mixed clientele - too packed, thats why i didnt eat here. Beer; apart from tap tosh, there was Otter Bitter and Amber (very nice), the local Branscombe Branoc and Summer That and Exe Valley XXV on handpull, so a very good choice of very local and Devonshire beer. I never had a chance to try the Fountain up the road. If it is as good as this, i want to move to Branscombe. The photo doesnt really show the pub, its to the left, behind the trees!

Official site of the Masons Arms, includes menus - www.masonsarms.co.uk