The Ilchester Arms, Yeovil

Well described by BobOs, though the date he was given appears wrong; the hotel's website now quotes 1786 as the date it was first licensed, which is much more consistent with both the architecture and the name. Whatever, it has an interesting history which is summarised on other sites. It is currently owned by the same landlord as The Bull Inn, just opposite. It's mainly a hotel business now, although there is a small restaurant and there are 2 bars open to non-residents. Only one ale on, which was in decent condition. A very enjoyable visit, and I'd be happy to call back in for food and drink when passing.

Originally licensed in 1686 as the George Tavern according to its advertising, the Ilchester Arms ‘country inn, restaurant and accommodation’ was very welcoming on our recent visit. On entering you find two doors, the right to the ‘bar’ area and the left to the ‘bistro’ area, both with light modern decor and pine furniture. There is no sign of beer until you get round to the rear of the central bar, where the wooden floors are replaced with flagstone and the functional bar provides the usual sorts of offerings plus four hand pulls, only one of which was populated on our visit, with Yeovil Stargazer in good condition. Most of those present were eating, the food being reasonably priced and generously portioned pub grub with some more elaborate options available. This was a decent place to stop and I’d come here again if passing.

OK small town hotel with a warm welcome. Now serving Directors and a Yeovil Ale - both were kept well. Didn't eat this time but may return. Owners have now bought the Bull opposite. Average.

Official site of the Ilchester Arms - www.ilchesterarms.com

Official site of the Ilchester Arms - www.ilchesterarms.com