The Five Dials Inn

It was a lively, noisy pub, but the fireplace and atmosphere made it a lovely place to be. We came for a family roast lunch, and the food was really good quality. They catered for gluten-free diners with a roast that left out the cauliflower cheese and Yorkshire puddings. I just wish there had been more potatoes or vegetables to make up for those missing items, and we’d hoped for a few more vegetables in general.

The owners, Sarah and Paul, are genuinely lovely, and it’s a friendly place with a nice atmosphere, plenty of parking, and seating inside and out. It’s between Illminster, Chard and Broadway. I stopped here because I’d passed it before and liked the look of it, and needed somewhere on the way to my parents. I enjoyed my stay, though I thought the room price could be lower. The room was clean and had tea and coffee, but the bed wasn’t very comfortable. I paid for breakfast, which had to be booked the night before. I don’t like choosing that early when I may not know what I’ll fancy, and I didn’t enjoy the breakfast much. The sausages were a bit strange. We booked dinner when we checked in. The menu didn’t have much choice, and when I asked for seasonal vegetables instead of peas, I was surprised to be charged an extra £5.00. Drinks were reasonably priced.

This has become one of our favourite places for a nice meal out. We’ve been to The Five Dials Inn a couple of times for dinner and drinks, and the food has always been delicious. The staff are friendly and welcoming. Really nice inn, highly recommend 😊

That first Christmas dinner of the season was a real treat. I tried the roast turkey and Christmas pudding instead of my usual steak and chips followed by sticky toffee pudding, and the chef’s subtle festive flavours were lovely. The orange sauce with the pudding was a particularly nice surprise. I’m sure I’ll be back at The Five Dials Inn very soon. I’ve been stopping at this little eatery on the way back from the Christmas meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse for years, ever since I stumbled across it. It’s an easy choice for me. Sarah Rowswell - Freeman always gives me a warm welcome, and she has lovely staff looking after the table. Isla and Neve were great this time too. Compliments of the season to me and to the whole Five Dials team. Sarah and Paul, keep up the good work, you’re absolutely smashing it. Much love, Simon x