The Farmers Arms, Combe Florey, Somerset
You can't beat a good country pub and this one, at Combe Florey is the epitome of how things should be. On the outside it's all rustic charm - whitewashed bumpy walls and a heavy thatched roof, and that general theme continues on the inside with hefty stone walls, big old beams, and inglenook fireplaces with wood-burners that add to the cosy feel in the winter.
Go to the bar and order a pint of local brew or try the landlord's cider, made using apples from his own orchard and from nearby fields. Whilst you're waiting admire the huge stags heads on the wall, or have a chat with the locals, they're a friendly bunch and they've got plenty of jokes to share, stories to tell.
If you book for food you're in for a treat; the head chef really knows his stuff and the result is restaurant quality food that's packed with flavour - but at decent prices, like you'd expect in a pub. Ingredients are locally sourced to the point where people bring in vegetables and herbs they've grown in their gardens in the village. If there's a big group of you then just ask for the private dining room upstairs; if it's a special occasion, or even if it's just because you're altogether and it's wonderful, have a bit of a party - they'll do you a buffet, canapes, a three course dinner, whatever.
The Farmers Arms is family friendly and dog friendly, and there are disabled facilities.
Open: 12.00 to late every day
T: 01823 432267 All information correct at the time of writing