Once the school has been found and the journey to work established, the next question I am often asked is what is the pub like. As a family we love to explore the counties pubs, for a Sunday lunch or an evening out. Here are my top five in Wiltshire:
The Potting Shed – Crudwell
The Potting Shed is in the North Wiltshire village of Crudwell. It’s an extremely welcoming pub that is frequented by the locals on a nightly basis which is always a good sign! The décor is stylish country Cotswold, with the log burners doing their work during the winter months creating a wonderfully cosy atmosphere and plenty of outdoor space and festoon lighting in the garden for long summer evenings. The service is fantastic the food exceptional gastro pub quality. If you fancy a more fine-dining style then their sister establishment, The Rectory Hotel, is just across the road.
The Crown and Anchor – Ham
The Crown and Anchor in Ham, which is just South of Hungerford, is a newcomer to the Wiltshire Pub scene. While it may be new, the team have hit the ground running and it has quickly developed a reputation as one of the best pubs in the county. The pub was recently purchased by a village resident after the existing Indian takeaway closed its doors. The new owners have do an excellent job of revamping it into a charming traditional local pub. The food is exquisite and the rooms are full of character. Located in the North Wessex Downs the pub is ideally suited for romantic weekends away with plenty to see and explore around the local area. There’s also a wonderful private dining room for special occasions or shoot parties. Look out for Myrtle the boarder terrier hanging out by the fire.
The Beckford Arms – Fonthill Gifford
The Beckford Arms draws people from far and wide and is one of those pubs that make people move to an area. I have lost track of the number of times I have been told by people they would love to live within walking distance of The Beckford Arms. One point that really stands out at the Beckford Arms is the truly exceptional service and their attention to detail, this is reflected in the food that they produce. The kitchen is very much focused on local seasonal produce in the dishes they serve.
Sign of the Angel – Lacock
Tucked away in the National Trust village of Lacock is a lovely wonky 15th Century former coaching house that’s home to The Sign of the Angel public house. As you enter the building you will notice the smell of woodsmoke lingering in the air. The pub’s homely atmosphere comes from the numerous open wood fires that share their warmth and light around the cosy interiors. The menu is planned around local seasonal produce from the surrounding area. As you relax in the pub its easy to find yourself drifting back over the centuries although I expect the food is considerably better in this day and age.
The Bath Arms – Longleat
The Bath Arms is the perfect family pub. Part of the Beckford group it comes with all the normal boxes ticked; great food, fantastic service and cosy décor. The bonus here is the location. It’s located in the village of Horningsham which is part of the Cranbourne Chase AONB. On the doorstep you have Longleat, Shearwater, Stourhead and Alfreds Tower; all within 15 minutes drive and Stonehenge only 30 minutes away. While you are here you might want to head over to the Bradley Hare which is a definite contender for this list too.
Learn more about Wiltshire on our Wiltshire Locations Page.
