West Somerset Hotel in Watchet Reopening Postponed
Quick Update
The West Somerset Hotel in Watchet was due to reopen rebooted on 22nd January 2025 but this has been postponed due to no hot water due to boiler problems. See https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569025353400.
The new managers are coming from the Ebrington Arms in Knowle in Devon. See https://ebrington-arms.co.uk/. It looks like a great pub.
Delayed opening whilst some works are being done, we are not likely to be open until February 2025. We want it to be right, with offerings of food and drink close together. Some essential repairs are required before we get there.
As you all know the Hotel has been standing empty a while, therefore we are taking the opportunity to get essential works done. I realise the previous incumbents where from Watchet therefore our updates have no bearing on what they achieved, but on where we are going.
We are going to change the hotel into a food, drink and rooms establishment, I realise some food was done, but we are hoping to push more on that side with our catering experience. All 3 strands of the business will become an essential ingredient in hope of success. Not saying it will but we will try. We will still have entertainment and fun, the environment we are focused on creating is a safe, relaxing place with all to enjoy. Easy said than done.
So far Bar Floor and shelving done, kitchen deep cleaned, and general clearance. Some repairs in gents toilets, some leaks, fire installation upgrades and some accommodation upstairs . cellar cooing repaired an some safety work on going.
The new pub will have real ales and will be dog-friendly.
Chris and John
Managing Expectations from the New Landlord
I have had mixed messages about the Hotel, in terms of expectation, changes, history etc., there has been enough information for me to feel that I need to give you an insight to how we want to run the place.
This maybe radical but best be upfront, as I have no intentions on investing just to leave due to being unhappy. You will find us very friendly, give our best, decent food offering and will undertake a continuous improvement ethos. For any guests staying they would expect some noise to 11pm or even later on occasions but not beyond that. This will not be a late night venue, but you will have fun. We will not be having raves etc., but will have bands, solo artists, open mics and more.
We are a couple who have experience in pub management , and have found what’s suits us best. We do not discriminate but we are against Anti-Social behaviour and will not tolerate fighting, drug taking , really bad language and just want people to have a good time.
Anyone who has been barred for fighting, aggressive behaviour, drugs are still barred. We would like to run a decent place and contribute to Watchet, therefore the message is behave or go home.
Let’s put the place on a footing where it will be an asset to the community where everyone can enjoy.
The Plan
Drink first, potentially basket meals until kitchen is refreshed.
A traditional food offering, with specials and Sunday lunches will follow in February.
Rooms to be repainted etc and be released approximately same time.
Hope to see you soon if Watchet wants us.
Please share if you will