Our first impressions of Hinton St George were of style, tradition and serenity. The Lord Poulett Arms, therefore, is perfectly suited to its picturesque Somerset-village setting. When we arrived at the 17thC thatched pub, it was Happy Hour: a log fire was lit and locals were enjoying complimentary bar snacks and craft ales. Everyone, whether a regular or a visiting guest, was being greeted warmly by the smiling staff. This is clearly a hub for the community; we spotted the vicar chatting to the landed gentry, and, as more weekend guests arrived, everyone seemed to mix happily. If you’re looking for a fine example of an English country pub, you’ve come to the right place.
For many, the food is the main attraction. Based upon the area’s excellent produce, menus change seasonally and are a perfect balance of hearty pub fare and refined gourmet options, all prepared with finesse. But upstairs 6 stylish bedrooms are a big draw, too. Fashionable touches (Berber rugs, modern art and rolltop baths) marry beautifully with flagstone walls and ancient fireplaces. All-in-all, another resounding triumph from the team behind The Beckford Arms and The Talbot Inn.
Highs
- It’s worth coming for the food alone; stay the night and you'll get an excellent breakfast, too
- Just 6 stylish but comfortable rooms, with bathrobes and Bramley toiletries
- Amazing rates
- Wonderful countryside walks out from the village
- A sun-trap courtyard gardens with pretty trellises, shady spots and a petanque court
Lows
- Two of the rooms have their bathrooms across the corridor rather then ensuite, but you’re unlikely to bump into anyone on the landing
- Breakfast finishes at 9:30am
- It's an old building so noise can carry. You might hear people in neighbouring rooms or in the bar if it is busy
- Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
- You'll need a car but arrival is easy, just off the A303, and although parking is on-street, it's a quiet village
Best time to go
The pub is open all year (but is closed Mondays and Tuesdays) and makes a lovely hideaway whatever the season. Summer is gorgeous for long lunches in the walled garden, spring and autumn provide glorious natural colours, and the pub is a cosy bolthole in winter thanks to its open fires.
Our top tips
Come for Punky Night on the last Thursday of October. It's a 250 year-old custom commemorating the time the men of Hinton St George went to a nearby village and got so drunk that they failed to return. The women of the village had to collect their husbands late at night, lighting their way with lanterns. Nowadays, there's an annual village parade of children and adults carrying carved lanterns made from pumpkins and singing the Punky Night song.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 8 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Great value for money. Everything exceeded our expectations.
We had a lovely overnight stop at the Lord Poulett Arms. The service was superb and the pub has a great ambiance. Our room was light, spacious and very comfortable and we enjoyed an excellent supper - the bar and other rooms are all tastefully furnished. The village too, was a delight.
Beautiful setting for a country pub, with a relaxed but welcoming atmosphere. Staff were helpful but we did have an issue with our shower. The food was excellent and doubt you would need to travel any further than their restaurant and the other historic places to visit nearby. The booking process via i-escape was straightforward.The hotel was excellent value for money and I would recommend it!
We love the Lord Poulett Arms! A very special get away for us and then booked for my parents too. Service, food, the rooms are all just perfect!
Thank you
Fabulous pub in the centre of a beautiful village, everything was to a fantastic standard, the room was lovely, the food superb, and the team so friendly. A particular thank you to John the landlord who looked after us from the moment we arrived, excellent host.
The staff were very helpful and friendly.
A couple of hangers in the bedroom would be very useful.
A walk to the large oak tree is worthwhile.
Take great care if turning off the A30 onto the road to Hinton St. George.
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