The Bell

The beer selection was great and the atmosphere brilliant. We first popped in for a quick drink on the way to a booked lunch, then found out there was a beer festival and live music later, so we came back after lunch. The landlords are doing a great job keeping a local asset alive.

Conversation comes easily here, and even as newcomers we didn't feel left out. The staff and regulars were welcoming, and the pub seems to suit just about everyone: walkers, cyclists, children, dogs, folk singers and morris dancers. It has old-fashioned charm, with low doorways, open fires and links to the local morris sides and folk nights. The Bell dates back to the 1700s, and it feels like little has changed. I'm only 5'8 and had to duck through one doorway. The cask ales are a big part of the place. There are eight hand pumps, all in use: five Hook Norton ales from light to dark, one guest ale and two real ciders. If cask isn't your thing, there's plenty else to choose from, all very well kept. The award certificates on the walls back that up. They've been CAMRA Pub of the Year runners-up two years in a row and shortlisted this year, with the decision still pending when I wrote this. That's quite an achievement in about three years of running the pub, and I believe it's Chris and Sandra's first one. They were excellent hosts and nothing seemed too much trouble. The food is excellent quality, not mass-produced, and locally sourced when possible. The menu fits on one side of A4 and has a good range, though at the time of writing nothing cost more than a tenner. That means no pricier cuts like steak or fancy dishes. Mains are a decent size for an average appetite, with starters, desserts and extras if you'd like more. Three standard courses still leave you change from £20. Food comes second to the drinks trade here, but the quality is still very good. There are two guest rooms, a twin that I believe is en suite and a family room that definitely is. The family room has a double, a single and another fold-down single. For two guests it costs £85 a night, including breakfast and basics like tea, coffee and a TV. If you're after loud music, pool tables or electronic gaming machines, this probably isn't your pub. Same goes for gourmet food with 'jus'. The music can range from folk to hard rock, but it never imposes. It's a place for friendly people who want a bit of peace.

I only stopped in for a pint, and it was the clearest ale I've had in ages. The staff behind the bar were friendly and helpful, and knew their way around the different beers. Warm atmosphere too. It was hard to leave when it was time to go.

The brisket is amazing, and Rhys is happy to put one on the barbecue if you ask ahead. Rhys and Michelle are doing a wonderful job at this pub. Keep up the great work, guys!