The Crossways, Shepton Mallet

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This modern hotel seems a it out of place in its rural setting. It certainly isn't a quaint country pub, and there's little about it that appeals. It's on a huge site and has a carpark, art of which is unmade, which makes it feel like a cross between a cheap motel and an open prison. Indeed, given the name, I was half-expecting a Benny-like character to appear at any moment. On arriving, I thought that some idiot had accidentally left his stereo on full blast, but it turned out to be a talentless live act trying to beat Motorhead;s 1980 record for noisiest gig ever. The bar is reached by walking all the way to the front, past the residents' entrance. The large bar counter sits at one side of the dining area, which feels more like a motorway canteen than a cosy restaurant. Taking your beer - you're not allowed to sit down due to COVID restrictions - you are given the choice of the terrace bar or the new rooftop bar, both of which do have excellent views across the neighbouring countryside, ironically a view which, if looking from the other direction, would have been marred by the ugliness of the Crossways itself. The only ale on was Doombar, which was in poor condition but drinkable. The staff weren't particularly welcoming, and the barman didn't seem to know what he was doing. It's unlikely that I'll be back, and even if I lived in the village I'd probably drink elsewhere.

On 20^th July 2020 - rating: 5
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