From coast to combe, the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Somerset is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the UK. A picture of undulating hills and valleys, jigsaw fields and wildflower heaths, it is the perfect place for discovery. And, making it even more appealing still are the array of pubs that nestle within its borders, awaiting with full menus and well-stocked bars ready to reward day-trippers and walkers alike.
So you can skip straight to your favourite course, we’ve put together a guide to the best pubs in the Quantocks ready for you to refuel and revive.
The Carew Arms, Crowcombe
The Grade II listed Carew Arms in Crowcombe is an attractive old pub enjoying a peaceful location at the foot of the Quantock Hills. Blending period charm with modern comforts, it draws visitors from near and far with a variety of spacious dining areas and snugs, a skittle alley, special events and a jovial, welcoming atmosphere. In winter, take a seat by one of the pub’s crackling fireplaces and in summer, find a pew in the pretty beer garden to lap up the countryside views. With great pub food, real ales, fine wines, and sweet treats to boot, there is something on the menu for everyone here.
Bicknoller Inn, Bicknoller
The dog-friendly Bicknoller Inn is a picturesque, thatched pub in the village of Bicknoller on the western slopes of the Quantock Hills. Once visited by renowned local poets William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, the flagstones and foothills around this historic pub have been traced by countless hungry travellers and famous figures over the centuries. Relax in the bar, Quantock room or dining area and peruse ‘The Bick’s’ menu of homemade meals, all made of locally-sourced produce wherever possible. In winter, the Sunday carvery provides added incentive, with a choice of three meats, seasonal veg and mouth-watering trimmings.
The Plough Inn, Holford
With all the adventuring to be had in the Quantocks making for hungry work, thoughts swiftly turn to food. Happily, The Plough Inn in Holford offers a welcome sanctuary after hours of exploration. Nestled within the Quantock Hills National Landscape, this 16th Century village pub is where English writer Virginia Woolf spent part of her honeymoon in 1912, and today is a favourite haunt amongst locals and visitors alike. As popular for a pitstop and a pint as a leisurely sit-down meal, it promises a menu of “honest and hearty” home-cooked country fare, all complemented by an extensive drinks list. What’s more, this pub is so dog-friendly that it even has its own doggie menu too.
Quantock Brewery, Bishops Lydeard
For something a little different, head to Quantock Brewery in Lydeard. Set up in December 2007, this brewery was established by Head Brewer Rob Rainer, a former nuclear engineer, whose mission was to brew the finest quality ales from the best natural ingredients. A CAMRA and SIBA accredited microbrewery, Quantock Brewery quickly gained attention for the exceptional standard of its creations and in 2022, four of its beers won medals at the World Beer Awards. To sample some of its delicious drinks, pay a visit to Quantock Brewery’s onsite taproom, where house brews, street food and good vibes flow in abundance.
The Hood Arms, Kilve
A historic coaching inn on the edge of the Quantock Hills, the 17th Century Hood Arms awaits in the village of Kilve. Boasting everything you could want from a traditional pub and more, the interiors here are framed by thick flagstones and low-hung beams, while outside a large garden basks in the sunshine. Whether you’re in your hiking boots or Sunday best, make your way over to this dog-friendly pub and make the most of its roaring log fires and cosy snug in winter. In summer, children will love the garden’s purpose-built play area, while all generations can enjoy partaking in a game of boules or table tennis as a fun-filled appetiser.
The Windmill Inn, Williton
For much-needed sustenance after hours exploring the rolling landscapes of the Quantocks, The Windmill Inn beckons with a wholesome menu of local favourites. Set within the northern reaches of the National Landscape, it sits pretty overlooking the postcard-worthy aesthetics of St. Audries Church, rolling countryside and St Audries Bay beyond. Whether you’re looking for a light bite or three-course meal, choose from a wide variety of dishes to suit the occasion. Throughout the week, a set menu is accompanied by an ever-updated specials board, while on Sundays, the pub’s interiors waft with the irresistible aromas of The Windmill’s popular carvery.
The Farmers Arms, Combe Florey
Just beyond the borders of the Quantock Hills National Landscape in Combe Florey lies The Farmers Arms. Once the go-to pub of 20th Century writer Evelyn Waugh, this welcoming pub has roots dating back to the 15th Century and has a quintessentially West Country feel. On approach, the pub’s thick thatch crown and coarse, white-washed façade exude a chocolate-box appeal, while on the inside, the attractive interiors create a truly comfortable, inviting space with walls of red-pink sandstone and chunky exposed beams. Sit beside the woodburners in winter or beneath the garden parasols in summer, and soak up the friendly service, gorgeous views and, of course, warming dishes.
Feeling inspired to fuel your appetite? Take a look at our luxury cottages in the Quantock Hills.
