Dolphin Hotel, Wincanton

A former coaching inn, now a low-grade B&B. The courtyard is paved and has some of the original cobbles in place, and it now serves as a garden and smoking area. Inside, there are three bar areas. The public bar at the front is a very dated (1970s style) drinking room with a jukebox and gaming machines, the lounge in the middle has a couple of wooden tables and some faded sofas, plus there are 2 handpumps on the bar. There is a function and dining room at the back with the look, feel and ambiance of a Scout hut, though it does have a bar counter and a food servery. The B&B rooms are tiny and worse value for money than the nearby Travelodge. There was a sign advertising bouncy castle hire, but we didn’t see any and felt deflated. Of the two ale pumps, one had a reversed London Pride clip, the other was dispensing over-chilled Butcombe Original, which was served by a barmaid who coughed into her hand before using her finger to wipe the sides of the glass. On the plus side, the locals who could still string a sentence together were quite chatty and friendly. I’d give this one a miss in future.

There seems little point to Sheri Fudge boosting her own pub with a 10/10 in her sole review - wouldn't it be better to let the punters rate it?

Official site of the Dolphin Hotel - www.thedolphinhotelwincanton.com

Recently refurbished to a high standard. New Lounge Bar is comfortable and has a relaxing atmosphere. The menu is vast and the food is fantastic, the Sunday Carvery is also excellent value for money. They offer ensuite bedrooms and these are beautifully clean and have great facilities.