Royal Oak, Taunton

Recently re-opened and returned to its original name (it was for a while known as The Orchard), it has reverted to being a basic roadside pub. The inside has been modernised in a good way, although conversion of the skittle alley to a restaurant is not a good move. There are several TV screens, a pool table, while Radio 2-style pop music is on the hifi. There is a freshly-cooked gastro-style menu, though the pub isn’t a gastro by any means. It’s popular with octogenarians, while one or two other customers, including their dogs, were happy to chat with us. Ales on were Butcombe Oak and Exmoor Fox, and Sheppey’s cider was available. Craft beers were Hazy Day and Ice Breaker, while the keg choices were Estrella Galicia, Guinness and Thatcher’s Gold. A reasonably decent pit-stop.

Facebook page of Royal Oak - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Royal Oak - www.facebook.com

Official site of Royal Oak - www.theroyaloakhillcommon.co.uk

Official site of Royal Oak - www.theroyaloakhillcommon.co.uk

This pub is now known as the Orchard Inn and I visited for the first time since the re-branding and decoration which seemed to comprise a lick of paint and some new wallpaper only It must have been pension day when we visited as all the local pensioners were in taking advantage of the £4.75 carvery lunch. Not being a fan of stewed overcooked vegetables and dried up beef myself I did not join them for lunch. However, the beer selection was ok, Otter Ale, Tribute and Exmoor Gold; the Gold was fine. The garden has seen the addition of a patio area however being January was empty apart from the now ever-present smokers. Overall a slight improvement since the days of the Royal Oak, but I'm afraid I won't be rushing back.