The Farmers Arms, West Hatch, nr Taunton, Somerset
Drive down a narrow winding lane towards West Hatch, high hedgerows either side, and suddenly, there it is; The Farmers Arms. It doesn’t get much more bucolic than this; the perfect setting for a country pub, surrounded by glorious Somerset countryside.
In a previous existence this was a farmhouse, so a lot of the original features have been retained; thick stone walls, old wooden floorboards, a big inglenook fireplace to one end, to the other a smaller one with a wood-burner. Settle yourself down on the leather sofas in front of it at the chillier times of the year and you won’t want to go home. In the summer take a drink out to the beer garden and sit and chat taking in the clear country air; the views out over the fields to the hills in the distance are the perfect backdrop.
Especially noticeable is the very convivial atmosphere, the chatter and laughter of locals and visitors mingles with the gorgeous aromas coming from the kitchen. Talking of which, the food is delicious, with some serious temptations on the mains menu: Somerset Pork Belly with Black Pudding Bubble and Squeak, Oven Baked Hake topped with Olive Tapenade, and for the vegetarians, Goats Cheese, Olive, Sun Blushed Tomato and Pine Nut Filo Parcel. Aside from that there are pub classics; ham, egg and chips, and a good selection of sandwiches and ciabattas.
The wine list is excellent and there’s a good choice of real ales and local ciders, and because the pub is out in the sticks, they serve a great range of non-alcoholic drinks. There’s regular live music, takeaway fish and chips on a Thursday night, and dogs are welcome, so it’s a good one to come to after a walk at Staple Hill just up the road. If you come on horseback there’s even a tethering point for your nag.
Open: 11am-11pm Mon-Sat 11am-10.30pm Sun
T: 01823 480980 Booking essential for big groups
All information correct at the time of writing