The Allerford, Taunton

A Victorian country pub, originally The Victory, built as part of the railway industry, which has been substantially refurbished and extended after a catastrophic flood a few years ago. Much of its original charm has been lost, and it is now a modern pub diner which caters mainly for low-budget, large-waistline diners from town. There is a car park in what was once part of the front garden, while the rest of the garden is lawned and rather bland compared to the rural surroundings. The original building is surrounded by what looks like a skirt of single story add-ons which provide conservatory-style dining areas. There is a reasonable drinking area with bar stools and, on this occasion, bowls of nibbles for those who wanted a drink. The Sunday carvery appears to be good value, but the rest of the menu is uninspiring. The young waitresses seemed a bit inefficient, but the barman was welcoming, friendly and made time to chat to our dogs even though he was busy. Two ales on, Butcombes Original and Tribute, both in OK condition. It’s the sort of place you might take an old auntie for Sunday lunch, but not somewhere I’d make a habit of visiting unless I lived nearby.

Official site of The Allerford - www.theallerfordinn.co.uk

Official site of The Allerford - www.theallerfordinn.co.uk