Candlelight Inn Chard Motorhome Stopover Information

About the Pub 🍺

The Candlelight Inn, located in Bishopswood just off the A303 near Chard (postcode TA20 3RS), was a charming 17th-century Somerset country pub renowned for its high-quality, locally sourced British cuisine. It featured an extensive award-winning menu that included vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The pub was also known for its extensive wine list, a gin bar with over 40 varieties, and a range of local ales and ciders on tap. The atmosphere was intimate and inviting, praised for style and excellent service.

Unfortunately, the pub permanently closed in 2024 due to a combination of rising costs, road closures affecting access, and economic pressures on hospitality businesses, despite having a fiercely loyal local following and accolades like the Travelers' Choice award and a 2-Rosette AA rating for culinary excellence.

Opening Times ⏰

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: 12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:00
• Thursday: 12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:00
• Friday: 12:00–15:00, 17:00–23:00
• Saturday: 12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:00
• Sunday: 12:00–18:00

Note: These hours are from before the closure. The pub is no longer operational as of 2024.

Food 🍳

The Candlelight Inn offered a varied and carefully crafted menu focused on local produce, including bar snacks, main courses, and specialty fish dishes. High praise was given to the Sunday roasts, desserts (such as salted caramel blondies), and small plates like roasted marrow bone with oysters. They catered to dietary restrictions with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Facilities 🏠

• Free off-street parking suitable for cars and motorhomes
• Dog friendly
• Free WiFi
• Full bar with table service
• Outdoor seating and beer garden
• Wheelchair accessible
• Reservations accepted
• Live music events

Reviews 👤

The pub was highly rated on platforms such as Tripadvisor with 882 reviews praising the quality of food, great service, and pleasant atmosphere. It received the 2024 Travelers' Choice award and was commended for exceptional, precise cooking and friendly, attentive staff. The pub was described as “a cut above usual” village inns.

Dog Friendly 🐶

The Candlelight Inn welcomed dogs, making it a comfortable stop for motorhome owners traveling with pets.

Beer Garden 🍷

There was a well-maintained outdoor seating area and beer garden to enjoy drinks and meals in fine weather.

5 Interesting Things to Do Nearby (within 5 miles) 🏛

1. Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Just a short drive from the pub, the Blackdown Hills offer stunning countryside walks and scenic views. It’s ideal for hiking, bird watching, and photography. After exploring the hills, visitors could historically come back to the welcoming pub for a well-earned meal.

2. Chard Museum

This local museum showcases the history and heritage of Chard and its surroundings. Exhibits include archaeology, local industries, and notable figures. It’s a great place for learning about the area's culture and history.

3. Hestercombe Gardens

About 5 miles away, these celebrated gardens combine Georgian landscape gardens with Edwardian formal gardens designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. The gardens include water features, rare plants, and seasonal displays, perfect for a day out in nature and horticulture.

4. RNAS Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum

Located slightly further but still within a reasonable ride, this museum focuses on the history of Britain’s naval aviation. It offers interactive exhibits, vintage aircraft, and flight simulators—great for families and aviation enthusiasts.

5. Dalwood and Wadley Nature Reserve

This nearby nature reserve is a tranquil spot for wildlife lovers. Featuring diverse flora and fauna, walking trails, and picnic areas, it offers a quiet retreat into Somerset’s countryside biodiversity.