Exmoor Brewery Tap, Taunton

As taprooms at breweries go this one is excellent. The Brewery has taken over the former Nuttycombe Brewery taproom (Hancock’s Dray), portioned off to formal single room which serves as both taproom and shop. It has a concrete floor, a garage door at the end, and the bar counter forms the other end. There is a large TV screen over the bar, though this was turned off when we visited. There are a few small tables made from beer barrels, and there is a single long table formed from a couple of wooden baulks. One side is lined with shelves and fridges full of cans and bottles of their own products plus a few guests, mainly ciders. In addition, they sold draught beer to take away in pins or cans. The staff, a young lady and the bar manager, were very hospitable and knowledgeable, even opening early so we could have a draft beer in addition to the takeaways for which we had come and taking time to chat with us. There were 6 handpumps on the bar, 5 of their own brews and a guest, BBF’s Launch Approval. The guest changes regularly, as evinced by the collection of pump clips lining the wall. There is also a bank of keg taps dispensing three of their own beers plus 2 guests. Parking is limited, but there is an opportunity to sit outside when the weather allows. All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable visit.