Holcombe Inn

Charming inn with far-reaching views, cosy bars, a wide choice of drinks and good food; lovely bedrooms

As there are plenty of places to visit nearby and good surrounding walks, the well equipped bedrooms here make a good base for exploring the area; some have views over peaceful farmland to Downside Abbey's school. Downstairs, the cosy room to the right of the main entrance has sofas around a central table and an open woodburning stove. To the left is the bar: fine old flagstones, window seats and chunky captain's chairs around pine-topped tables, and a carved wooden counter where they serve Bath Gem, Butcombe Bitter and Otter Ale on handpump, 21 wines and champagne by the glass, 25 malt whiskies, cocktails and a thoughtful choice of local drinks (cider, vodka, sloe gin, various juices); board games and background music. A two-way woodburning stove also warms the dining room, which is partly carpeted and partly flagstoned, and has partitioning creating snug seating areas, and a mix of high-backed patterned or leather and brass-studded dining chairs around all sorts of tables; daily newspapers. A little sitting area leads off here and serves specialist teas and coffees. There are picnic-sets on a terrace and side lawn, and the sunsets can be stunning. Dogs are welcome everywhere (except the restaurant) and in two of the lodges by prior arrangement.