Hankridge Arms, Taunton

A 16th Century farmhouse which has been restored and is now the main part of a small shopping complex based around the former arm buildings, adjacent to but distinct from the main retail park. The pub forms the main part of the complex, and despite its situation, has kept a great deal of charm. There is a small car park at the back, but the retail park provides plenty more parking nearby. The pub has been substantially restored by Hall and Woodhouse and is full of architectural gems, including the original stone floors, mullioned windows, timber framework, inglenook fireplaces and decorative plasterwork and restored lime wash walls and oak panelling. There is a conference room at the back, while the main house consists of a restaurant and two bars. There is also a garden with benches and tables, nicely hidden from the main road. The staff were very welcoming, pleasant and helpful, while the majority of the clientele were the more mature diners and drinkers. Three ales on draft, all from Badger, were First Call, Fursty Ferret and Pickled Pigeon. All were in very good condition, and the prices have been substantially reduced since Paris's review, below. This pub is a real surprise given its location, and I'd be very happy to come back anytime, although including it on a crawl might be awkward. Worth a visit just to admire the architecture.

Bloody expensive! £4 for a pint of the run-of-the-mill Badger!