Batcombe, Somerset

Somerset's Most Delicious Secret

Where valley mists, worn stone, and Margot Henderson's kitchen conspire to make leaving feel impossible.

Tucked into the folds of the River Alham Valley, The Three Horseshoes is the kind of place that reminds you why the English countryside still has the power to astonish. This 17th-century Somerset pub, reimagined by the culinary triumvirate of Margot Henderson, Frances Pen, and Libby Russell, wears its history lightly — low beams and worn stone sit alongside a mood of down-to-earth minimalism that feels quietly, confidently modern. With just five rooms, intimacy is guaranteed, and the sense that you have stumbled upon something genuinely special never quite leaves you.

The food, naturally, is the soul of the operation. Henderson's touch — honed at the beloved Rochelle Canteen — brings honest, seasonal cooking of uncommon depth to this tucked-away corner of Somerset. Expect the kind of table that lingers in memory long after the journey home: a plate of something generous and perfectly judged, a glass filled without ceremony, and that apricot pavlova, billowing and golden, which alone might justify the drive. The dining room hums with the particular warmth of a place that takes pleasure seriously without taking itself too seriously.

For couples seeking quiet restoration, curious Somerset explorers, or devoted foodies in pursuit of the next great meal in an unlikely setting, The Three Horseshoes delivers something increasingly rare — genuine character, genuine cooking, and a genuine sense of place. It is mid-range in price, but entirely first-rate in spirit.

Notable Features

What Sets It Apart

5 rooms
Margot Henderson (Rochelle Canteen)
Down-to-earth minimalism
Apricot pavlova
River Alham Valley

Gallery

Inside & Out

The Three Horseshoes — interior and exterior view 1

The Three Horseshoes — interior and exterior view 2

The Three Horseshoes — interior and exterior view 3

The Three Horseshoes — interior and exterior view 4

The Three Horseshoes — interior and exterior view 5

The Three Horseshoes — interior and exterior view 6

Guest Voices

What They Say

“Went there with the family, my husband and myself to celebrate our joint 65th birthday. Went for lunch. It was a lovely surprise. The food was lovely. We had lamb, leek and dulse pie with dripping chips between the four of us, someone else had calves liver and someone else a vegetarian meal. Drinks were great. At the end of the meal, the staff came out with a 65th birthday cake. The cake was bought in by a family member. What was left of the cake we left for the staff. The staff were very attentive and asked if everything was OK throughout the meal. The pub was full. The chef is a Michelin chef who has a restaurant in London. Would recommend.”

Katherine Tyrrell5/5

“We visited the restaurant at the Three Horseshoes and had a wonderful time! We went to celebrate my parents' joint 65th birthday and the team were incredibly accomodating! They found us the perfect dog-friendly spot and accommodated us bringing a celebratory cake, bringing it out at the perfect time. The team, including Mia, were all fantastic! Delicious food, an intimate quiet ans low-lit atmosphere, and a very well selected drinks menu. Well done all for providing such a memorable and wonderful experience!”

James Tyrrell5/5

“We didn't stay but enjoyed a fantastic lunch December 31st. For us townies this is everything we wanted for a country pub. Lovely setting, we walked and arrived to a mist enshrouded Batcombe, and a cold winter sun weakly lighting the village. We walked into the pub, which immediately felt cosy and homely, large flagstones on the floor, and roaring log fires. Perfect. We had a drink in the bar and looked at the bar snacks menu. We could very happily have enjoyed that menu for lunch. The food in the restaurant was simply fantastic, think pub classics elevated to s higher level combined with some other interesting but relativly simple choices. Both dishes I selected were fantastic, the terrine followed by an absolutely delicious squid casserole. We will definitely find an excuse to visit again. Great pub, great food and very friendly staff”

Mike De Vere4/5

“Visited for lunch and the food was delicious and the staff were welcoming and friendly. Very nice decor and well presented. Great that we could bring the dog and the log burner was on and giving its warmth on a chilly day. Enjoyed the beers on draught especially the Otter Ale. Food was served quickly and mains were delicious. Special mention goes to the Scotch eggs which were the best. Dessert was delicious, the Lemon Meringue pie was superb. Will come again.”

Duncan Finch5/5

“Booked a birthday lunch. Very disappointed. Small cramped table next to a large party of 10+. Small uninspiring menu, two specials on the blackboard. 12.45 we ordered three steaks from the blackboard plus wine. We were informed only one steak left. So changed our order to Cassoulet for two at £45. 30 mins later nothing arrived, apologies for lack of wine but took another 10 mins to arrive. Starters adverage. Mains awful. Steak was cold. Cassoulet arrived in separate dishes, so why only available to share. Steak came back slightly warmer. Cassoulet consisted of insipid sausage, duck and a slab of fat (probably pork) didn’t touch it. We called it a day and when asked if we enjoyed our meal we did mention the above, to which she said she hoped it would be better if we came again. No seasonal game, nothing remotely tempting unless you have a desire for fatty meat, the sight of the belly pork was eye watering. I can assure you we will not return.”

Jayne FG1/5