The Devonshire Arms, Somerset

Overview

Innovative food, cosy rooms with village views and stylish interiors draw a discerning crowd to this former hunting lodge, standing by the village green in Long Sutton.

With a log fire, flagstoned floors and three hand pumps at the bar, it's still a historical local haunt with contemporary, quirky touches, such as Victoriana features and art from local artists, bringing a personal touch to the classy open-plan space. The restaurant has echoes of a country gentleman's drawing room, with its hunting-themed wallpaper and banquettes.

For those feeling serene after a walk on the Levels, settle into a Chesterfield by the open fire in the bar and relax. The garden boasts two level lawned terraces, replete with fig trees, a vegetable patch and tables under a pergola offering shade. Games such as croquet, boules and giant outdoor Jenga keep guests entertained. Enjoy the main walled garden with tables under the pergola, or head out to the front of the pub to enjoy views over the village green and church.

Rooms from

Doubles: £105

Good to know

Most major credit cards accepted (not Amex)
Alfresco & private dining
Parking available
No dogs overnight

Family favourite
Families are very welcome - a number of bedrooms have an interconnected door and cots are available, too.

Outdoor adventures
Lying deep within the rolling countryside of Somerset and within handy reach of the famous Levels, there's plenty of gorgeous walking on the inn's doorstep.

A touch of culture
From Barrington Court to Montacute House, get lost exploring one of the area's many stunning country piles.

Events and celebrations
The former stable is a smart private dining space and can accomodate up to 14 seated guests.

Rooms

The majority of the bedrooms rooms are up on the first floor with two ground-floor options in the little cottage at the rear.

With mellow tones and homely furniture, all rooms exude a soothing quality - perfect for those craving some downtime. Many have charming views over the village green and church, and two have free-standing baths. Rooms three and four have an interconnecting door, which makes them ideal for family groups. For breakfast, expect freshly-baked croissants and generous full English's with organic bacon and sausages.

Restaurant & bar

The kitchen delivers a stylish seasonal menu rich in local produce and foraged-fare and the focus is on updating British classics with an international twist.

There's not a huge amount of differentiation between lunch and dinner, save for the addition of a cracking midday ploughman's, and there's a satisfying modernity to the output. Expect British classics like sausages, wholegrain mustard mash, red onion jam and herb jus, or perhaps try hake with white wine cream sauce. Local organic beef gets the burger treatment (served with Westcombe Cheddar, salsa and chips), while confit duck leg is a cracking version with creamy mash and pickled red cabbage. Save room for desserts such raspberry Bakewel tart. During the summer, the courtyard tables and lawned terraced garden fill up when barbecue season is in full swing.

Alongside local Butcombe beers you'll find Harry's cider, brewed here in the village, or why not try some Somerset cider brandy, brewed a mere three and a half miles down the road. The wine list has useful little tasting notes to give an idea of style, with a small but perfectly formed selection available by the glass.

Private dining

The former stable is a smart private dining space for up to 14 seated guests, and there is no shortage of outside space in the rear courtyard and walled terraced garden.

Things to do

It's cider country in these parts, so head to Wilkins Cider Farm and get to the bottom of why cider is such a big deal. Don't go expecting a fancy farm shop, simply pop into the barn and get cider straight from the barrel. You can also stock up on fresh vegetables, eggs and pickles as well.

Just a stone's throw from Glastonbury, a visit to Clarks Village is a true shopping experience. Here, you can shop in stylish surroundings comprising paved walkways and landscaped gardens. There are many designer and high street stores, a restaurant terrace for alfresco and indoor dining and a choice of all-important coffee shops.

Based in the heart of the Somerset Levels, John Leach's Muchelney Pottery has been running for half a century. The pots are all lovingly and expertly hand-thrown, using local clays, and the shop is open all year apart from Sunday.

Close to Yeovil, the Fleet Air Arm Museum represents the flying arm of the Royal Navy - a place for serious hardware with serious capability. Home to Europe's largest collection of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, aerial enthusiasts with be blown away!

Head to beautiful Wells for a lovely day out, with plenty of things to see and do. The jewel in the city's crown is its historic cathedral, noted for its superb gothic interior. The famous West Front, with its intricate sculptures, is a real work of art. Look out for the moated 13th-century Bishop's Palace and a host of historic landmarks nearby.