The Exmoor Forest, Minehead

An excellent country B&B in a large hamlet on the route through Exmoor. The building has the look of a Bavarian Alpine hotel from the outside. There are two carparks, and the building is fronted by a fenced lawned garden. Inside, half the ground floor is used as a bar, with three separate areas, all carpeted and with a woodburner in one part. The remainder is kitchen, office, breakfast room and lounge with a TV. The staff are incredibly welcoming of humans and dogs. Food is freshly cooked, well served and good value; it's high-end pub grub, no frills. They run regular theme nights and quizzes and serve as a decent local for the village. There was only one ale on draft, Otter Amber, but it was well kept and in good condition. Two draft ciders were also available. We stayed here with the dogs and would be very happy to do so again, especially given its proximity to some interesting walking routes.

Very good country inn with well kept ales but rather expensive menu. Walker friendly. Above average.