The Volunteer, Ilminster

Now a brew pub on the former main road, it consists of 3 rooms which have been conjoined but not really amalgamated – so it all seems a bit out of place, especially given that the owners’ living space and family activity overflows from the domestic areas to the pub. That said, it means the place is homely, with décor which would not look out of place in a 1950s period drama, clashing as it does with the pubs exposed timbers and original stone fireplace with its large woodburner. There is also a collection of artefacts dotted around, including several beer mugs hanging from the ceiling and a piano with a score of Fuer Elise propped open on its music stand. Around the fireplace is a group of comfy sofas, while there are several tables around, some laid for diners, others simply available fro drinking and socialising. There were 4 pumps on the bar dispensing their own ales – Windy Brewery is the trade name and the ales follow the theme. Tornado Bitter and Windward Stout looked good, but I went for an El Nino IPA (4.2ABV) which was pretty good. Food is home cooked and the menu varies, but I didn’t think it was that cheap. Nearly all the customers were locals, and they weren’t that welcoming, unlike the landlady who was quite friendly. The beer was good, the pub was certainly atmospheric, but there was something I wasn’t quite comfortable with. That said I’d be very happy to drop back in for a pint and a bite next time I’m passing, and it’s on the 2018 Somerset Ale Trail, though opening times can be variable so don’t get blown out.

Probably improved a bit on Paris's review below. The pub is now home to Windy Brewery (a bit unfortunate considering one of the side effects of copious volumes of beer imbibed) brewed on site. I tried the Tornado, a 3.9% Copper coloured bitter which was perfectly acceptable. They also do a Flurry at 4.2% which was not on. Other beers on were from the St Austall range - Black Prince and Tribute. Was disappointed to have missed the Jubilee ale from Windsor Brewery. Seemed fairly popular with good passing trade and a couple of regulars at the bar.

Roadside traditional village pub on the old A303 tourist route to the Westcountry. 5 handpumps but an unimaginative choice of Courage Best, Youngs Special, Ruddles County(!?), RCH Pitchfork and Cotleigh Owlzat. The Pitchfork was fine. There are better pubs in South Somerset should you wish to seek them out. BTW, the landlord is to start brewing his own beer in the next few weeks so look out for this here and in pubs and shops in the surrounding area.