Rose & Crown, South Petherton

Official site of Rose & Crown - roseandcrowneastlambrook.com

Official site of Rose & Crown - roseandcrowneastlambrook.com

Update. Since the previous review the pub has had a turbulent time, having changed managers twice and had an internal refit at the front, opening up the area a little and making it more accessible. Still owned by Palmer's, the current landlord was very complimentary about how that Brewery had supported him through the Lockdown period this Summer. The ale range has reduced to 2 ales now, Gold and IPA on the latest visit, and real draft cider is now available. It's still expensive for the area - the landlord blames this on having to use Palmers beers, but he also hinted that he keep the prices high to 'keep out the rowdy element', by which he means the young male population of the Parish. Food remains good quality, but again prices are kept artificially high. I'll continue to stop in every now and again as my dog seems to like the place, and they do offer her a treat when she comes in.

An impressive country pub, a 17th Century inn which has been mainly renovated. It's a bit chocolate boxy, but that doesn't stop it being a really good pub There is a small car park at the back, and the garden is large and open, pleasant and tidy. It's mostly lawn with wooden benches. The original building has been extended, with the extension housing a restaurant area, while the main bar is also primarily set for diners. The pub is mainly carpeted, while about a third of the main bar has wooden flooring, which is where dogs are allowed. The rear bar, which is mainly used by diners, is in an extension which was built over an old well shaft, which now has a plexiglass cap forming part of the bar floor; you can look down the shaft when they remember to turn on the light. The staff were friendly and helpful, the customers a cross-section, though mainly diners. All the beers were Palmers – I had Copper Ale and Dorset Gold, both in excellent condition. The cider selection was more disappointing, though, only 2 from Thatcher's. Food is locally sourced and freshly cooked, and there are theme nights – steak Wednesdays, curry Thursdays and fish Fridays. The Sunday lunch was particularly good. Take-away fish and chips is available, but it costs about twice as much as a normal chippy and just isn't the same. On the positive side, they also do sandwiches. It's a really good place to visit for a lunchtime pint or an evening meal, and I'm probably going to come here fairly regularly.