The Drayton Crown, Langport

Recently refurbished after a period of closure, this fine Georgian house has a new annex at the back built in a similar style, which now contains hotel rooms and a restaurant. Most of the large garden has been given over to car parking, while a small terraced area remains close to the house. Too close, as smoke blows in through the open windows. Inside, a modern makeover has removed much of the original character, leaving it feeling very sterile despite a couple of pretentiously exposed beams and some rather nice animal paintings. All the furniture is new as well, and they've tried to go for a gastro feel. This is reflected in the food menu which is a bit over the top, quite expensive and of mixed quality. I had belly pork which was excellent, although my companion had a lamb tagine which was almost devoid of lamb and was no better than a tinned curry. Four ales on draft, three from Butcombes and Timothy Taylor Landlord, plus a boxed cider on the bar. The pint of Gold I had was in very good condition. The landlady, despite working extremely hard to make it all work, was friendly enough, and there was a swarm of young girls rushing around as waitresses, though most of them weren't allowed to serve alcohol as they were under 18. The beer is the pub's saviour; I doubt I'll be coming back to eat too often but I'd be happy to drop in for a pint if passing.

I'd always thought this pub was closed as I never saw it open - it just happens that I tend to pass on Tuesday evenings when it doesn't open. Opens later in the week apparently. Did visit recently and a decent village pub it is, although nothing extraordinary. 2 real ales, Otter bright and Sharps Doom bar, the latter of which was quite pleasant for a change. I wish the best of luck to pubs like this, the only one in a fairly dormant looking village. People need to use their local or lose it!