The Swan Wedmore

Stunningly refurbished historic inn that’s breathed new life into a handsome village in the rural heart of the Somerset Levels

When owner Rob Greacen spotted The Swan in the heart of pretty Wedmore, its historic grandeur was sadly faded. Harnessing the talents of a local interior designer and a first-rate architect, he spent a year remoulding and furnishing the imposing white Georgian building to perfection, and it finally opened its doors to drinkers, eaters and sleepers in August 2011.

For those who want a relaxed rural break in the Somerset Levels, it’s a perfect base. Downstairs it's an easygoing haven of wood floors, leather chairs, local ales and an open fire. Upstairs, the 6 rooms, all different, all quirky, are exactly what you'd want: stylish and calming yet unfussy and practical. Home without the mess, perhaps. Walls are painted in soft neutrals or stony grey, and natural fabrics are offset with splashes of colour from cushions or pictures, and intriguing pieces of furniture skilfully foraged from eBay and auction rooms. But the heart of this place is the kitchen, led by Tom Blake from River Cottage. His gutsy country cooking, with its scrupulously sourced ingredients, has really put The Swan on the map, and unlike other gastropubs, food (including homemade bread and cakes) is served all day. The result is a genuine community hub with a loyal local clientele and lashings of atmosphere - a rare thing indeed.

Highs

• Cycling through the flat Somerset Levels, hiking in the Mendip Hills and watching incredible murmurations of starlings: this is a beautifully peaceful part of England
• Great West Country food: Tom cures his own hams and bacon, fresh fish is delivered daily from Brixham, ciders and ales are locally produced
• Fantastic value for money
• The gorgeous rooms are more hotel than pub: claw-foot bathtubs, Bramley toiletries and DVD players
• Highly professional, helpful young staff who will help you get the most out of the region

Lows

• The Medium and Small Rooms have baths with handheld showers rather than a shower cubicle - book a Large if you want a walk-in rain shower
• Only 1 starter and 1 main option for vegetarians
• This is a busy and popular pub, so don’t expect total silence in the rooms; Large Rooms are the quietest
• No dogs in the rooms - a bonus for some