Lamb & Lark, Yeovil

A small freehouse in a tiny but affluent village on the Somerset Moors, very close to Yeovilton airfield. There is a pleasant and tidy garden at the back with bench seating which gives great views over open countryside. There is a small car park, and proper bike racks are available for cyclists. The inside consists of a single long bar divided by a low wooden balustrade into a dining area and a drinking area, which are on slightly different levels joined by a ramp. The only electronic distraction was a small TV at one end of the bar, which actually made it feel more homely. There was, inexplicably, a set of large wooden Tin Tin statues in the bar. Food is unpretentious, wholesome, freshly cooked and reasonably priced. I found all the staff extremely friendly, and the few customers in were a good bunch of locals. The welcome from all was genuine. The pub runs regular quiz and theme nights, the proceeds of which are shared with local charities. They also run a mobile hog roast business. There were two ales on when we arrived, Tribute, which is for some reason I don't understand, their house beer, and a bitter from Cheddar. The latter was past its best, still drinkable, but the landlord insisted on changing it, and the Tribute was in perfect condition. Orchard Pig Reveller was the cider on draught. The pub does not open on Mondays, but I would be delighted to drop in any time it's open for food and beer.

My recent visit was a really enjoyable experience - the food was excellent and very good value and the ales - St Austell's 'Tribute' and Box Steam's 'Tunnel Vision' were both 10/10. All it needs now is an occasional smile from the dour landlady and this could be a cracking little pub. Well above average.

Large village inn in rural Somerset right at the end of RNAS Yeovilton's runway (although it is mainly a helicopter base these days. Low beamed celings with a small bar in the corner of an L- shaped room, which had been knocked through. Beers on were St Austall Tribute and Cheddar Gorge Best. Ciders were Lawrence's farmhouse and Stoford. very quiet midweek, hope that they are busier at weekends.

Official site of the Lamb & Lark, contains menus and event details - www.lambandlark.co.uk

Official site of the Lamb & Lark, contains menus and event details - www.lambandlark.co.uk