At The Chapel Hotel

Somerset

Bruton, a town somewhere between the A303 and Glastonbury, has long been the ‘hidden’ gem of a food lovers’ destination that, in fact, many of us have found. The reverence that this former 18th- century chapel once had, in the most literal sense, still pervades, as do the original features: the huge, double-height windows that ensure the entire building is bathed in light being key. That they’ve then kept the decor and furnishings to whites, with subtle variants, only adds to the celestial vibe. This follows through into nine stylish bedrooms – minimal, of course, with lots of white, subtle wood – all delicately done but with beds and baths to get properly get lost in.

The food, on the other hand, is bursting with a mix of British (roast venison haunch), French (onion soup with smoked Applewood croûte) and Mediterranean (spliced throughout) influence, including a sourdough pizza menu where even the humble Margherita is given a local avour thanks to Glastonbury mozzarella, emerging beautifully from their wood-fired oven. It also has its own bakery, so you can go home loaded up with Westcombe cheese straws, Somerset pork sausage rolls, cheddar and leek quiche and banana custard cruffins. Heavenly.

Doubles from £125. 01749 814070, atthechapel.co.uk

Words by Alex Mead.

This review was taken from the March 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.