Penscot Inn

Two friends and I had booked to stay at The Shipham Inn while walking the West Mendip Way. My friend had booked two rooms and dinner directly with the manager Graham by email, who had confirmed the booking, and yet when we arrived in the afternoon, weary and ready for a drink and a shower, the front door was locked and there was no answer by phone or by ringing the bell / knocking on the door. We were pretty baffled by this, and the general air of disrepair and mess (ashtrays overflowing with cigarettes and a dirty bowl and spoon just left on the tables outside the front door) which contrasted significantly from the signs claiming to give us a 'warm welcome'. Two visitors to the car park assured us that they would let the manager know we were there (it was apparently his day off) and said he would be back shortly. 45 minutes later we were still waiting when Graham and Cheryl arrived and spoke briefly to my friend - they indicated that they would make another room up but that was pretty much it, certainly no apology or expression of welcome. We waited outside (the front door was still locked) for another 30 minutes wondering what on earth was going on until I needed the loo - again no answer to the phone or from ringing the doorbell, at which point we gave up and headed to The Swan Inn in Rowberrow which was a compete different and wonderfully welcoming experience. My friends and I are still very confused as to why our experience was so different to the reviews here and on other sites - perhaps the hosts didn't want their day off interrupted and hoped we would go of our own accord, in which case why did they accept a booking on a Wednesday? In any case, I would definitely NOT recommend this venue based on our experience.

What a fantastic place, with outstanding hosts! I visited recently with my pet cat to attend the animal hospital close by. Stayed two nights. Cheryl and Graham went above and beyond for me and snowy. Little presents with food on the bed when we arrived, how thoughtful! The breakfast was absolutely stunning, fresh produce cooked to perfection. The room was adequate for our needs, and very comfortable. Quiz night was good fun too. But overall, it’s the welcoming, natural and superbly friendly and funny hosts who are the stars of this establishment. Cheryl and Graham, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, and made a challenging experience much better for me and snowy. God bless you both. Wayne and Snowy

A beautiful village in a gorgeous village setting and from the outside a pleasant looking inn. Step inside and your confronted with dirty carpets, staff poorly presented and the pub dog at your feet. The ownership were helpful and polite but this didn't contra the general appearance of a poorly decorated public area and rooms. Clean linen and shower but generally everywhere in need of total refurbishment.