Whenever people
come to stay, they ask us whether we can recommend a local restaurant,
or a walk, or some other type of recreation. We are happy to do so! West
Somerset is a friendly place, and all of the local people will always
make you very welcome - but there are one or two places that have that
little something extra! Especially when it comes to eating out.
Visitors
usually want something with a local character -that has some unique
atmosphere, uses local products, or, to put it quite bluntly, that we,
ourselves, feel at home in.
A couple of examples? We shall be setting out this page a bit better as
we accumulate the sort of places that we know, from experience, you will
also enjoy.
The
Notley
Our favourite pub/restaurant just up the road in Monksilver. No music,
no slot machines - just a good country pub with the right atmosphere,
good and inexpensive food, a fabulous pudding selection, if you can
reach that far, and friendly staff and customers. www.thenotleyarms.co.uk
Podshavers
Podshavers means, quite literally, cricket bat makers. You will need
proper directions to find this, (it's about 12 miles away, but well
worth the effort) probably the best restaurant in this region. Down a
deserted and narrow country lane, into a derelict farmyard, down a
narrow alley -and there it is, just the right blend of atmosphere,
comfort, character and quality. Prices are good -excellent when you consider the
quality of the food. Certainly one of the places to go to impress a
partner. 01823 433556
Andrews
on the Weir,
Porlock Well known in some of the glossy mags, and weekend supplements.
Situated in a prominent position at Porlock Weir, Andrew is supposed to
provide the 'best steak in England'. Good place for Sunday
Lunch, with very good set meal prices. Again, about a dozen miles from
Washford, but could be on one of your tours. www.andrewsontheweir.co.uk
Royal
Oak, Luxborough
Up a windy, river valley through pine forests, climbing to Exmoor's
plateau -the Luxborough route just has to be one of the prettiest routes
in this region, and is literally on our doorstep - througth Washford to
Roadwater, and continue up the valley. Two choices, here - the posh
restaurant, or the country pub, with the usual trimmings - good natural
beers, and the occasional folk group. Prices a liittle higher
than the first two restaurants on my list - but the atmosphere in the
Royal Oak on a busy night more than makes up for the difference. More
restaurants and pubs to come - it's a life's work, you know!
