The Devonshire Arms - South Somerset

I went to the Devonshire Arms for lunch today and had an exceptional meal. The dining experience was top-notch. The blue cheese mousse was absolutely delicious and the Cajun beef was fantastic. The service was excellent - friendly and efficient. The restaurant is in a lovely location, in a picturesque village that is both atmospheric and welcoming. The prices were reasonable as well. I highly recommend this restaurant.

Whenever I drive some 560 miles from the Highlands of Scotland to visit family, relatives and friends, I make a point of visiting typical English country pubs. Strange as it may seem, there 's no exact equivalent in Scotland. Based in Curry Rivel, a few weeks ago I was invited to Sunday Lunch at the Devonshire Arms, Long Sutton, Langport. This most attractive establishment has a bar, restaurant and bespoke 9-bedroom accommodation. It was my first time there. I was mightily impressed for a number of reasons. Owned by Philip Capon, the building is a Grade II former hunting lodge, set adjacent to the picturesque village green of Long Sutton in the heart of the Somerset Levels close to the A303 near Somerton. It 's just under two hours from London by car or train. One might be forgiven for querying why the pub 's not called the Somerset Arms. Well, I 've learned the Devonshire Arms, constructed in the 17th century, came under the ownership of the 4th Duke of Devonshire in 1753 as part of the Bolton Abbey Estate. However it was the 5th Duke, who sealed its place in history. The Duke realising the importance of visitors to the area, established miles of footpaths in the locality. The façade and exterior stone walls retain much of their original features and character. Once inside though, one 's met with a surprisingly chic, contemporary style. Quality exudes from every nook and cranny. As with any organisation, it 's the people who work there that make things happen. The service was seamless, second to none. No service with a snarl here. On the contrary, unobtrusive efficiency, high degrees of professionalism, unflustered at the busiest of times were the hallmarks. We were served by Julia, Scalette, Maya, Rae, Ashley and Frankie. Without exception, they anticipated our needs, almost before we realised them ourselves. Nothing was too much trouble. We were not rushed. Properly trained, they clearly enjoyed their work. I had no idea whether they were students or part-/full-timers, the standards were the same. The seating arrangements were both comfortable and spacious. A most pleasant ambience. No noisy musak preventing conversation. There 's a large walled garden and sheltered courtyard for wining and dining outdoors. Incidentally, in Italy 'al fresco ' means 'in prison ' (cool places). Vorrei mangiare fuori , will avoid the waiter 's laughter. The quality of cuisine was first class. Ample portions even for the heartiest of appetites. The menu was wide ranging, catering for myriad tastes and nutritional requirements...locally sourced ingredients. The bar was well stocked with an excellent choice of wines, spirits, beers, ales, soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages. Catering is an art. All the more so in a hospitality industry with some 400,000 vacancies. Staff retention is key. The Devonshire Arms scores highly in this regard. The perfect destination for a day out from London. Dog friendly. Good value. Highly recommended.

The Sunday lunch was fantastic - delicious meal and a great atmosphere. We were made to feel welcome and not rushed. But the best part was the food - highly recommended!

We took our 8&10 yr old granddaughters for Sunday lunch. The menu is excellent and they serve a children’s portion of all the roasts. The ambiance is excellent for all and the service quick and welcoming. We had the beef and pork which were both excellent and a good portion. The massive homemade Yorkshire puddings are particularly tasty as was the good selection of vegetables. About £20 a head (with only 2 drinks) so a reasonable price for first class food. Recommend

Great pub, great food, desserts amazing, nice friendly staff, a real hit with work colleagues would visit again.