THE TALBOT INN AT MELLS

The Talbot Inn is at the heart of Mells, a place which seems to be England in a pint-pot. History, tradition, the great English arts and folklore shape this beautiful little village - described as ‘the quintessence of Albion’ by the Independent newspaper.

The Inn itself has been welcoming travellers since the 15th Century, when it was built as a rest stop for coaches running the London to Wells road.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Just a short drive from Bath, Longleat, Glastonbury, Wells, Centre Parcs and the area’s other major attractions, the Talbot Inn makes an ideal getaway for a long weekend, or a base for exploring this fascinating region.

Walkers on the Mendip Hills, cyclists on Colliers Way and golfers at Orchardleigh will find plenty to keep them busy, or you can just take it easy with a pint of gravity-fed real ale in our historic Tythe Barn bar, or enjoy a selection from our award-winning menu.

We also have a beautiful garden and cobbled courtyard in which to dine al fresco and enjoy sunny days.

The Talbot Inn was listed in the Independent’s ‘Essential Guide to Going Out’ as one of the 50 best pubs in the country.

RHYME AND REASON

Mells has connections with the some of the greats of English literature, philosophy and architecture. The war poet Siegfried Sassoon is buried in the grounds of the parish church - a 15th century gem with stained-glass windows by Sir William Nicholson. Edward Lutyens, who designed the stunning Mells Park House and London’s Cenotaph, also has his final resting place here.

Mells Manor is home to the Asquith family, renowned for their influence on British political and intellectual life. The Asquiths carry the ancient title of Earls of Oxford. Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford, is perhaps the most famous holder of that title, because of claims he was the actual author of the works of William Shakespeare.

LITTLE JACK HORNER

Another noted local family - the Horners - are claimed by some to be the decendents of Jack Horner, the nursery rhyme ‘good boy’ who ‘stuck in his thumb and pulled out a plum’.

According to legend, Jack Horner was the steward of the last Abbot of Glastonbury who helped himself to the deeds of Mells Manor after the Abbot had hidden them in a pie intended for King Henry VIII.