Windwhistle Inn, Chard

This rather scruffy 17th Century roadside inn is currently owned by St Austell Brewery. It sits in a superb location overlooking some of the Somerset Levels, and has a large car park, sometimes used by caravans as an overnight stop, and a sizeable garden with spectacular views. Inside, there is a large square bar with a central servery, and a separate restaurant area at the side as well as a conservatory at the back. There is also a separate function room. The atmosphere would be very well served by the traditional décor, open stone fireplaces and exposed timbers, but it is let down by the lack of welcome from the staff and general air of neglect. The menu was interesting and original, though given that the menu cards were laminated, not changing very often. It is also expensive; the dishes are overpriced and the beer is around 15% more expensive than in other pubs in the area. Ales on were Bath Gem, Tribute and Liquid Sunshine, reasonably well kept but not enough to justify the price. It wouldn’t be my first choice of venue.

Not much has changed from BobOs review, 3 ales were Otter, Exmoor Stag and St Austal Proper Job, which was at the barrel end so didn't get to try. The Otter was fine. The restaurant was packed - must have been some do, but there was no one in the pub side so the atmosphere was a bit strange to say the least.

It was my local many years ago. Then it was very nice. Today it seems to be missing something - although it has three ales on and the food is OK, the service seems to be lacking and customers are treated with indifference. Below average these days - shame!

Official site of the Windwhistle Inn, contains menu - www.windwhistleinn.co.uk

Official site of the Windwhistle Inn, contains menu - www.windwhistleinn.co.uk

Large multiroomed dining pub on top of the Windwhistle hill between Crewkerne and Chard. 3 ales on, Old Speckled Hen, Otter Bitter and Exmoor Antler, not quite my cup of tea, but seemed quite popular.