The Ship Inn, Porlock, Minehead, Somerset
The Ship Inn at Porlock is one of the oldest pubs on Exmoor, dating back to the 13th century, and what a picture it is with its whitewashed walls hung with flowers, and the tall chimneys and thick Devon thatch; then there are the rolling hills up behind and the sea just down the hill, so it's like something off a chocolate box, proper postcard pretty. Locally it's known as the Top Ship, as down at Porlock Weir less than two miles away there's another pub, owned by the same family - the Bottom Ship. Top Ship, Bottom Ship, both much the same.
Inside is just as traditional as outside; flagstone floors, oak beams, stone walls and log fires to keep you warm in the winter. Outside there's a terrace with plenty of seating and an enclosed play area for the kids. The food is hearty homemade fare with no pretentions because that's the way they do things here. There's a children's menu, and a lunch menu of hot and cold baguettes, plougmans and light bites, as well as mains like Mozzarella stuffed meatballs, Vegetarian moussaka, Pan fried seabass fillet, and Homemade beefburger.
There's a resident ghost at The Ship Inn and stories of a bed that had been slept in when the room was unoccupied; ah, it's the stuff that Exmoor is made of, all part of its charm. Dogs welcome.
Open: Mo-Sat 10.00 am-11.00 pm Sun 12.00-10.30 pm
T: 01643 862507 All information correct at the time of writing