The Bell Inn, Shepton Mallet

A large local pub in a working village, certainly not chocolate-boxy, and off the tourist trail, and one with a good local reputation. It stands in its own grounds in the centre of the village, and it has a good sized car park where vans, trucks and tractors can stop while their drivers enjoy a working lunch. There is a fair sized garden, though it’s not elegant. Inside there is a large main bar with a smaller games room with a pool table, dart board and TV screen which was mercifully silent when we visited. The décor is dated, a cross between the 1960s and a care home in terms of style, but the welcome from the staff is genuine and there’s a good local feel to it. The menu is reasonably eclectic, with a choice of standard pub fare and a daily specials board. Food is well-cooked, unpretentious and reasonably priced. Two ales on, Robinson’s Dizzy Blond and Doombar. Dogs treats are available for 50p, a bit mean given that most places give them away. I enjoyed the Dizzy Blonde (the beer was quite nice too), didn’t try the Doombar. I’d be very happy to come back any time.

Visited while camping nearby, nice enough decor, pool table etc.. nice local pub in small village. Made to feel very welcome by friendly staff, who even ordered us a taxi at the end of the night. A good selection of really reasonably priced beer.