The Castle at Taunton

Stylish dining in the heart of town

Perennially popular, this wisteria-covered hotel in the heart of Taunton is renowned for its timeless elegance and award-winning culinary flair.

The Castle has seen a number of talented chefs pass through its kitchen, and now head chef Andrew Swann oversees its buzzing restaurants and private dining rooms.

The main restaurant, Brazz, is open for brunch and lunch, but really comes to life during dinner service when low‑level lighting and leather banquette seating create an intimate atmosphere. Quality South West ingredients form the backbone of the menu, and guests can expect to find the likes of Brixham crab and prawn roulade, pickled mouli, lobster and dill sauce, and Quantock lamb rump and crispy belly with salsa verde, creamed potatoes and purple sprouting.

The past year has seen the refurbishment and launch of The Drawing Room, a relaxed lounge area where hotel guests and visitors can book in for afternoon tea or a light lunch, or enjoy an evening cocktail. Formal restaurant Castle Bow has reverted to a private dining space, hosting weddings and celebrations in glamorous art deco surroundings.

Trencherman’s tip: Head to Brazz for Twilight Hour (between 11pm and midnight) on Fridays and Saturdays to enjoy two‑for‑one cocktails and house spirits.

Winner of Best Trencherman’s Chef 2023 – sponsored by Hallgarten & Novum