West Somerset Hotel, Watchet

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Recently re-opened under new management, this former coaching inn looks quite modest from the outside but has a lot going on. They still offer B&B, they have an active restaurant and of course the pub itself. The original gate off the main road is still in use, though much of the courtyard has been built on, leaving a smaller garden which is mostly timber decked and has several wooden booths with tables and benches. It’s also used as a smoking area, the smoke drifting into the bar, and when we visited there was a live band playing in the garden. There is also a skittle alley at the back which is used as a function room. Inside, there is a deceptively long bar formed from conjoining earlier rooms, mostly tables for diners, and there is a small TV above the bar. There is a smaller room at the side of the counter, referred to as The Snug, though it’s more of a circulation space than a cosy drawing room. There is also a small games room at the side, which has a dartboard and gaming machines. Food is basic pub grub at a fair price, plus they do Sunday lunches and brunches throughout the week. The young staff were very pleasant and helpful, despite the infuriating behaviour and rudeness of some of the grockles, while the landlord, clearly over-worked, was also friendly and welcoming. Their ales were in good condition – Wadworth Horizon and Twickenham Naked Ladies were on, plus there was a dry pump, and there was a standard keg selection. Overall it’s a busy seaside pub with no real pub atmosphere during the day, but I suspect it’s probably better in the evening out of season, so I’m keen to give it another try. It’s on the 2025 Somerset CAMRA Ale Trail.

On 29^th July 2025 - rating: 6
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