Penn Bar in Mendip

In September, a good friend, board member and resident of Somerset, took us on a three day tour of her “home area.” We visited Wells, primarily to see the great Cathedral there, but after that visit to the Cathedral, and surrounding sites, I declared “wine thirty,” so we headed to the pub in The Crown at Wells. First, The Crown at Wells is an inn, then next, a restaurant, and finally a pub/bar. It was in the latter, that we took a table. The wine list was short, and we got the Chablis, while our “tour guide” had coffee. The restaurant and pub/bar seem to be separated, and not just in the sitting areas. I approached the bar, to order the wine and the coffee, and was directed to the “other room.” Once around the corner, in the adjoining room, I walked up to that bar (same bar, but on the other side), and the same gentleman could now serve me. The bar area had two “windows,” and apparently one was for the restaurant side of the operation, and the other for the pub. This was rather odd to me, but I had a good laugh over it. Perhaps the bartender had a good laugh at me, going from side to side of that bar area? Also, I had to be certain to pay, on the correct side. All very confusing for this “Yank.” All service was friendly, and though the Chablis was served much too cold, we had an enjoyable hour, sipping wine and coffee, and recounting our busy day, and especially Wells Cathedral and its grounds. A comfortable pub for a bit of a pause, and some wine. If we had not had reservations to dine elsewhere, the menu looked interesting, and so long as I found the right side of the bar to order from, would probably have been very good. Neat, historic inn/pub, and worth our stopping in – just get instructions on which side of the bar to order from.

We visited the Wells Christmas Market and at lunchtime visited the Penn Bar at The Crown at Wells for lunch. We decided on a sandwich and chips and a beer. Not all the beers were available and on querying the choice of sandwiches the staff were less than pleasant and informed us that it was only the sandwich of the day. The sandwiches were very appetising in that the bread was dry, and not just ours, and fairly expensive. On complaining the staff member was again not pleasant but said they would replace them. The replacements were a lot better and very satisfying but the chips were cold, probably the same ones that were taken back. We were then informed that the originals were dry because they had been under the hot plate. Who puts sandwiches under a hot plate.

Despite the historical interest of the venue, the food we were served at dinner last night was very disappointing - chicken included with a vegetarian selection and a very poor fricasse with accompanying vegetables over-cooked to ruin. We overheard other disappointed diners nearby although we were not afforded the same gushing apology, for some reason. Not likely to recommend to others after such an experience.

This is a pleasant little “old fashioned” pub which is part of the Crown Hotel. There is a very nice although small seating area outside where you can enjoy a drink and even a meal out in the fresh and only a stones throw from the Market Square and the Cathedral. We had a few drinks outside but ate inside. There are various areas to eat some quieter than others and all very comfortable. The menu is varied with a good selection of reasonable priced meals and snacks to suit all tastes. The staff were all very pleasant and efficient although sometimes the food service is a little slow. It does get very busy though on markets days. We would definitely recommend it

We met up with some friends in Wells while on holiday in the area and came here for lunch. No complaints, the beer was good (Butcombe Bitter) and the four of us shared two chilli beef/nacho platters which were just right. A very cosy place on such a cold snowy day and the service was courteous and efficient. Very handily placed for the cathedral and Bishop's Palace which are right opposite.

A proper pub ideal for meeting others or relaxing after a long day. Multi screen TVs but not obtrusive. Nice selection of Ales and wines. Look out for the Happy Hours for great value.

Ate here twice. Fascinating old building. Basic pub food, but hearty and tasty. Good beers and lovely friendly staff and customers.