Thatchers opens managed pub after £1m Somerset investment

The Railway Inn, Cider House and Kitchen, in Sandford, has opened near Thatchers cider mill at Myrtle Farm.

Martin Thatcher, managing director Thatchers Cider, said: “We are in a privileged position being the only pub in the village of Sandford. For over 140 years, The Railway has traditionally been the hub of the community and that’s something we are very keen to maintain.”

The pub features a cosy informal area furnished with leather chairs and barrel tables, a traditional bar incorporating apple ladders, and a 62 seat restaurant overlooking the garden. 

The front façade of the pub remains the same to uphold the pub’s long tradition.

The original railway signals from the old Sandford railway line take pride of place outside, with two authentic oak vats, now housing the cycle racks.

The Railway Inn has been decorated with artefacts and pictures reflecting the cider making heritage of Thatchers.

The bar and restaurant has hand carvings in English oak describing the story of the cider making year.

Thatchers has brought in general manager Warren Zilch from the Fishermans Cot in Devon, and head chef Matthew Hampshire, who trained under Michael Caines.

Hampshire said: “Using seasonal ingredients with respect is something I’m passionate about, as is using locally sourced produce.

“We’ve teamed up with some wonderful producers in and around Somerset, many on our doorstep, who we will be working with for The Railway Inn menu. So you’ll find free range meat from Blagdon Butchers, fresh vegetables from The Ethicurean and local cheeses from Lye Cross, just as an example.”

As part of Thatchers emphasis on sustainability, energy for the heating and hot water at the Railway Inn is provided by the company’s own biomass boiler, which is fuelled by prunings from the orchards.

Martin Thatcher concluded: “It’s such a pleasure to be open and welcoming guests. The pub looks amazing, it has such a warm and inviting atmosphere, we look forward to creating a much loved place here at the heart of Sandford where everyone feels at home and at ease.”