The Rising Sun, Sidmouth

The Rising Sun is situated at the main crossroads in Sidford. Whilst it does supposedly serve food, it felt like this was more of a drinkers' pub than the Blue Ball Inn just outside of town to the east. The pub has 3 distinct areas. To the left as you enter is a nice looking section with a couple of dressers and some board games. We sat in the central section which is separated from the main bar by a wall and a fireplace with a wood burner. A large TV above the fireplace was showing the Olympic Taekwondo competition. There was also presumably a TV in the bar area to the right, as we could hear the locals discussing the sport. However the sound was off, in favour of a radio playing in the background. To the rear and right-hand side, there are some outdoor areas including some undercover used by smokers. A garden up some steps contained children's play equipment. The gents toilets were also outside. Three handpulls were all located in the bar. Branscombe Branoc is the regular ale. Guest beers during our visit were Dartmoor Legend & Teignmouth Portside. I tried the latter, which was in pretty poor form. A blackboard on the bar also indicated the availability of 4 ciders from Sandford Orchards - Devon Red, Devon Mist, Rib Tickler & The General. Keg ciders were all from Thatcher's - Gold and the 3 fruity ones. Wychwood Hobgoblin IPA was also on draught. Events are also held regularly, including karaoke and a quiz night on a Tuesday. This seemed like a fairly decent locals' boozer with a good ale and cider selection. If I consider the poor beer quality as a one-off, this is one I would return to.

Official site of the Rising Sun, contains menu and drinks list - www.therisingsuninsidford.co.uk

Official site of the Rising Sun, contains menu and drinks list - www.therisingsuninsidford.co.uk