The Bell Inn, Watchet

E TA left this review about The Bell Inn

A coaching inn dating from the 16th Century, The Bell claims to be the oldest pub in Watchet. It has a small courtyard garden at the back, the former stables have been converted into a function room, and the inside has been made open plan, apart from a discrete skittle alley. As you enter from the road there is a comfy seating area on the the right with a large stone fireplace, part for the original structure, though one wall has been removed and it doesn’t really sit well with the rest of the bar. The main part of the bar has various levels – trip hazards – where former walls have been removed and feels more 1970s than historic. There is a dartboard in one corner, opposite which is a piano supporting an host of electronic sound equipment used for open mic and folk music evenings. They also host regular pub quizzes. A fair collection of sporting trophies is also on display, most won at skittles, darts and pub quiz league competitions. The greeting we received on entering wasn’t the warmest, the landlord giving us some very suspicious looks, while his mate at the bar clearly didn’t want to be interrupted by customers. The majority of customers also looked like they’d escaped from the 1970s. Food was very basic pub grub at a fair price, no frills and no hidden charges. There was a TV screen in the corner, though this was switched off. On draft were Tribute, Otter Amber, Sheppey’s Cider and Stan’s Cider. The keg range was Carlsberg, Tetley’s, Guinness, San Miguel, Peroni, Thatcher’s Gold and Rattler. Worth a visit if in the area, especially for the good value lunches or if you’re into folk music.

On 19^th August 2025 - rating: 7
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