The Woodborough, Winscombe

A large popular pub in the centre of the village. Essentially it’s a big “U” shape, although the right hand leg looks to be currently used more of a function room whereas in a former life it was probably a skittle alley. The main drinking bar is at the front, with another bar off to the left that seems to be reserved for diners. Beyond this again is a good sized restaurant area with table service. The pub décor is tidy and up together, but doesn’t have much in the way of character. It all seems a bit identikit, as though they bought all the furnishings off the shelf somewhere. You could be in any number of chain pubs up and down the country with dark polished wooden beams, some exposed brickwork, red checked carpet, brass fans on the ceiling and the obligatory black and white photo’s on the wall. It was very busy on a recent Saturday evening though, with most tables taken both in the bar and the restaurant which is good to see in the current climate. Having said that, it’s the only pub in a sizeable village, so there’s not really any competition. The front drinking bar and "dining" bar had a mixed age group, but the actual restaurant area seemed more popular with the older generation. I think the youngest punter in there was about 60. The menu was extensive and offered something for most palettes, from pub staples such as curry, ham, egg & chips, etc. to more adventurous dishes. There was also a specials board with another ten or so choices. Most of the mains were around the £8 mark, and seemed decent enough value for what we got. My Thai Smoked Mackerel fishcakes from the specials board were certainly very tasty. Staff were all helpful and friendly. Beers on tap were Butcombe, Courage Best, Doom Bar and London Pride. Ciders were all from the Thatcher’s stable, with their Gold, Pear and Hobgoblin.