As the Michelin Guide’s annual announcement approaches, Somerset is certainly finding itself at the centre of an exciting culinary progression. A once quiet destination for hospitality, its brilliance is now making waves. Michelin rated restaurants in Somerset are becoming a more frequent subject of conversation amongst foodies (we’re proud to be listed in the Michelin Guide), and the region’s dining scene, long admired by those in the know, is (finally) starting to gain the recognition it truly deserves.
At The Clockspire, perched on the border of Somerset and Dorset, we’ve had a front row seat to this transformation, and we couldn’t be more excited for the future of Somerset’s dining culture. Somerset has always been a county that thrives on authenticity—where the land’s bountiful produce meets the creativity and innovation of local chefs and growers together. It’s a destination where tradition is respected but also reimagined, where the story of each dish is rooted in its ingredients and its makers. The rich history, combined with contemporary takes on local flavours and tradition, makes Somerset a truly exciting place to dine.
But what sets Somerset’s best restaurants apart from the rest? It’s not just about exceptional ingredients (though we’ll get to that). It’s about service excellence, attention to detail, and a commitment to providing that unforgettable experience. The restaurants and destinations that truly stand out in Somerset are those who consistently deliver above expectation. It’s about creating a lasting impression, ensuring that every dish leaves guests not just satisfied but inspired. At The Clockspire, we strive for that exact level of excellence every time, because of simply the love and passion for what we do. We don’t just want our guests to enjoy their meal—we want them to feel something, to be transported by the flavours, the atmosphere, and the sense of pride and enjoyment that permeates everything we do.
As the Michelin Guide includes more Somerset-based venues each year, the conversation around our region’s culinary prowess continues to grow louder. And while we’re not driven by the pursuit of awards, we do embrace the growing recognition of Somerset’s food scene.
Our beautiful county is rich with diverse and talented growers, farmers, and producers, many of whom have been quietly perfecting their craft for generations (to our fortune!). From the lush pastures where livestock graze fields, to where the vegetables grow in fertile soil which has been within families for hundreds of years. The true taste of Somerset is in the personalities who nurture these ingredients and the chefs who bring them to life. It’s about being part of a community of chefs, farmers, and hospitality professionals who are all dedicated to putting Somerset on the map as a culinary destination. At The Clockspire, we believe that it’s part of our role is to honour these relationships—whether it’s with the local butcher, the nearby farmer, or the skilled growers whose vegetables provide the perfect seasonal foundation and focus for our dishes.
For us at The Clockspire, the ultimate goal isn’t a symbol of achievement—it’s the joy of watching our guests enjoy the experience we’ve worked so hard to create. So, while we eagerly await news regarding Michelin and our great community, our focus remains on what matters most: providing you with exceptional food and service, making sure every guest feels truly valued, and continuing to evolve alongside the very best Somerset has to offer.
