Dog-friendly Winscombe

If you like village pubs and open countryside, Winscombe and the hamlets around it will suit you. The area sits on the edge of the Mendip Hills, and the pubs here know their audience: walkers, ramblers and dogs passing through after a morning out. You will find water bowls, treats and bar staff who make your dog feel welcome, not tolerated.

Coverage is growing, so this is not a complete list.

Pubs

The Crown Inn Churchill is tucked away in The Batch and draws ramblers, dog walkers and cyclists. Dogs are welcome but must stay on lead at all times. You will find water bowls, spacious seating indoors and out, and homemade pub food at lunch. Open 11am to 11pm most days (midnight Friday, 12pm to 10.30pm Sunday). One member said the pub feels like "a hidden gem" for dog walkers.

The Swan Inn, Rowberrow sits on the edge of the Mendips and is a natural stop if you have been out walking. Dogs can join you indoors for meals, which makes it a practical choice after a muddy loop. Open from 8am daily. Popular with walkers.

The Railway Inn in Sandford welcomes dogs in the bar and beer garden. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the pub makes a point of welcoming dog walkers. Open from 10am daily.

The Star in the centre of Winscombe has staff who pay real attention to dogs, offering treats and making a fuss. The dog policy is unconfirmed, but members report a warm welcome. Closed Mondays; hours vary through the week (12pm to 6pm Tuesday, 11.30am to 6pm Sunday, later midweek and Saturdays).

Woodborough Inn on Sandford Road is dog-friendly and well placed if you are exploring the local walks. The dog policy is unconfirmed, but service is friendly and dogs are made welcome. Open from 8am daily.

Stag & Hounds in Langford welcomes dogs in the bar area only. Treats and water bowls are provided. Open 11am to 11pm every day.

What to know before you go

Every pub here scores well with BarkFind members, but the welcome varies. At The Crown, dogs must stay on lead throughout. At Stag & Hounds, dogs are restricted to the bar area. At The Star and Woodborough Inn, the exact dog policy is not confirmed, so it is worth checking ahead if your dog needs particular allowances.

The area is popular with walkers, particularly at weekends. If your dog finds busy pubs stressful, aim for midweek or early afternoon. Most pubs open from 8am or 10am, so you can stop in after a morning walk rather than waiting until lunch.