The Kings Arms, Melksham

Jumbo hotel complex run by Butcombe who took this one off Wadworth’s hands along with a fair chunk of their other pubs a few years ago. The main bar is semi-modern but tastefully decorated - herringbone floor, rugs, F&B shades. It is pretty echoey, with a high ceiling and not much to break things up. Log fire was on the go and it really felt like the season in here. Tried the Rare Breed which was in great nick (NBSS 4) served-up by friendly set of staff. Butcombe Original and Stans Cider were the other two pump choices. Another surprisingly good Melksham pub.

A fine old inn on the Market Place, still offering hotel accommodation to this day. The bar has been opened out from several rooms at some stage and refurbished in a semi-modern style that might displease the traditionalist, but it is well done. As a Wadworth house, the three real ales on handpump were 6X, IPA and the seasonal Dirty Rucker (£3.80). The keg Corvus stout was also noted.