The Hind, Axminster

An old fashioned local pub with limited opening hours. At the front is a recently-restored garden, mostly gravel, with new wooden benches and chairs, and there is a small car park at the side. They changed the name as they felt the reference to Sir Francis Drake was no longer relevant. Inside, there are two bars, both somewhat dated, with carpet that have seen better days. The staff were friendly enough, though we did have to rush our drinks as they wanted to close after a short lunchtime session. Ales on were Ruddles Best, Moonraker's Raker and Directors, all in very good condition. Keg choices were Wolfpack Pilsner, Devon Mist cider, Guinness, Carlsberg, San Miguel and Thatcher's Gold. Worth dropping in if it's open when passing, but have a Plan B if you're intending to visit.

Facebook page of The Hind - www.facebook.com

Official site of The Hind - www.thehindmusbury.co.uk

Facebook page of The Hind - www.facebook.com

Official site of The Hind - www.thehindmusbury.co.uk

Now simply known as the Hind, this village pub in Musbury is another that has limited opening hours, being open Thu-Sun at lunchtimes and Tue-Sat in the evening. As such, I planned it as my last pub on Wednesday evening when opening was not until 7pm. I was first to arrive. But it is clear that the pub has its dedicated followers, as three more people were quick to arrive, with others due to turn up to play skittles. Real ales are clearly popular, judging by the drinks choices and also the sheer number of pumpclips on the wall. However, I was left a little disappointed by the choice - Tetley's Cask or Wychwood Hobgoblin Gold. Fuller's London Pride & Butcombe Rare Breed were due to come on during the week. I guess these were unusual finds for people living locally, but nationally they are fairly commonplace these days. Nevertheless, the small public bar was cosy and the landlord/landlady were very friendly. It is good to see a well-run village local drawing in people for its ales and if that is what the locals want, all the better.