The best country pubs in Somerset

From charming thatched inns to hidden rural gems

Home to a plethora of quintessentially English country pubs, take a stroll into any town or village in Somerset and you’re guaranteed to have a range of trendy and traditional inns to choose from. Whether you're looking to feast on a selection of hearty pub classics or stop off to sample a pint of the county's finest cider, here's a selection of some of our favourites.

The Queen's Arms, Corton Denham

Price range: ££

Location: Corton Denham, Sherborne DT9 4LR

Website: Click here

© The Queen's Arms via Instagram 

A place where dogs and muddy boots are encouraged, this family-owned pub has been serving the quaint village of Corton Denham since 1851. Nestled amongst rolling green hills between the Dorset and Somerset border, its strong focus on exceptional food and great drinks has secured itself a place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. Using local, sustainable produce to create a selection of pub classics, you can expect to find expertly prepared dishes including dry-aged ribeye steak served on a bed of salsa verde spring onions, crispy chicken schnitzel and dukkah spiced Creedy Carver duck breast. 

With a plethora of historical sites sitting nearby including Sherborne Castle and gardens, this tasteful pub is the perfect resting spot for budding explorers. Stop by for a light bite on your way to the next landmark or make a reservation for two and enjoy a romantic evening in the countryside. 

The Cotley Inn, Chard

Price range: ££

Location: Wambrook, Chard TA20 3EN

Website: Click here

© The Cotley Inn via Instagram

The perfect place for long lazy lunches, this traditional village pub sits at the foot of Blackdown Hill, offering some of the best views for miles. Using freshly landed fish and herbs plucked from the kitchen gardens, The Cotley Inn takes British Modern cooking to the next level by incorporating the finest locally sourced produce wherever possible. With dishes such as sticky braised beef and grilled red mullet on the menu, you'll be planning your next visit before your main course arrives. If you're visiting on a Sunday, we recommend the roast lunch with all the trimmings and extra lashings of gravy. 

The George, Backwell

Price range: ££

Location: 125 Farleigh Rd, Backwell, Bristol, BS48 3PG

Website: Click here

© The George via Instagram

With the rolling green pastures of Somerset just a short drive away, this traditional pub is perfect for enjoying great food with your family and friends. Featuring a suntrap courtyard and lawn, rest and recharge after exploring the Mendip Hills at The George. Catering to an array of different palettes, you can expect to find plenty of meat, vegetarian and vegan options across the menu. For seafood-lovers, the king prawn coconut curry is sure to satisfy your cravings while veggie enthusiasts can tuck into the wild mushroom, spinach and tarragon suet pudding. 

The Pig and Fiddle, Bath

Price range: ££

Location:  2 Saracen St, Bath BA1 5BR

Website: Click here

© The Pig and Fiddle via Instagram

An iconic pub sat in the heart of the city, this dog and child-friendly watering hole serves up delicious food alongside live music. With plenty of space inside to rest your legs, there's also a courtyard beer garden for fans of al fresco dining. Popular attractions such as the Roman Baths, Theatre Royal and Bath Abbey sit close by so there's no excuse not to stop by for a drink or two between each spot. 

If you fancy something a little different, try the crispy fish tacos served with a zesty mango and cucumber salsa, or if you love the classics, the beef burger with maple and bacon relish is a great alternative.

The Red Lion, Babcary 

Price range: ££

Location:  North St, Babcary, Somerton, TA11 7ED

Website: Click here

© The Red Lion via Instagram

Set in the idyllic village of Babcary, this award-winning pub and restaurant is home to a comprehensive range of ales and locally produced ciders. Conveniently nestled in a rural location, you can find this picture-postcard thatched cottage at the bottom of a winding country road. With a log burner to warm you during the winter and a pretty garden for the summer months, The Red Lion is a great year-round destination. 

Perfectly situated for exploring Somerset's wild beauty, unwind after a day of rambling with a cosy fireside setting while tucking into a selection of gastro delights such as pan-roasted salmon, hand-stretched pizzas and roast fillet of pork. 

The Sheppey Inn, Glastonbury 

Price range: ££

Location:  Lower Godney, Wells, BA5 1RZ

Website: Click here

© The Sheppey Inn via Instagram

Encompassed by rich moorland and wildlife reserves, this hidden gem celebrates all things farm fresh. Each option has been crafted using locally sourced produce, from pan-fried venison steaks to antipasti-sharing platters to ensure each meal is packed with flavour.

With a menu that changes regularly and live music on the weekends, soak up the vibrant atmosphere as you delve into an unforgettable meal. If there's room at the end, satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of limoncello cheesecake before exploring the nearby towns of Wells and Glastonbury. 

The Archangel, Frome

Price range: ££

Location:  1 King St, Frome, BA11 1BH

Website: Click here

© The Archangel via Instagram 

First recorded as an inn in 1311, this listed building can be found on the cobbled streets of Frome. With a menu that delivers the finest traditional pub food, dine on delicious seasonal goodness all year round. Think fried halloumi for starters, tandoori chicken thighs served with coconut and mango yoghurt for a main course and a sticky toffee sundae to finish. 

In the summer, this charming pub turns into a bright and breezy destination. French windows open onto the courtyard, allowing you to dine outside while live music plays. Highlighted as one of the Times “Best Places to Live in Britain”, explore Frome's medieval streets, independent shops and local culinary delights for a wonderfully eventful day out. 

Candlelight Inn, Chard

Price range: ££

Location:  Bishopswood, Chard, TA20 3RS

Website: Click here

© Candlelight Inn via Instagram 

In the heart of the Blackdown Hills, you’ll find this intimate pub that's excellent for both casual and upscale dining. From sophisticated meat dishes such as braised beef cheek to sumptuous puddings including Candlelight affogato, elevate your dish with a carefully chosen wine pairing for an unforgettable dinner deep in the countryside. An idyllic setting for a romantic evening, the fireplace dining area sits beneath wooden beams and is beautifully decorated with candles and dried blooms.

For those visiting during lunch service, the salt beef baguette served with mustard mayo, pastrami, rocket, pickles, and torched cheese is perfect for hungry day visitors. 

A home from home in Dulverton

Swathed by local wildlife, seasonal blooms and rural charm, a stay at Upcott Farm places you in the heart of Somerset’s bountiful countryside. Gather friends and family to settle beneath cosy beams and celebrate the arrival of warmer days with a stay this summer. Sleeping 12 guests across six beautifully designed bedrooms, this home can be split into two separate dwellings depending on your group's requirements. Nightjar and Willow's Rest are dog-friendly and benefit from sprawling countryside views and a hot tub. 

Image credits: © The Queen's Arms via Instagram | © The Cotley Inn via Instagram | © The George via Instagram | © The Pig and Fiddle via Instagram | © The Red Lion via Instagram | © The Sheppey Inn via Instagram | © The Archangel via Instagram  | © Candlelight Inn via Instagram | All other images are our own.