Duke Of York Pub Shepton Beauchamp

The Duke of York: Shepton Beauchamp’s Most Glorious Pub

If you ever find yourself hurtling through the Somerset countryside, squinting at a sign that reads Shepton Beauchamp, do yourself a massive favour: slam on the brakes. You’ve just stumbled upon the Duke of York, a pub so effortlessly charming it could convince a teetotaller to order a triple gin. Seriously, this place has more warmth than a microwave full of kittens.

Pulling up to the Duke feels like arriving at your eccentric, beer-loving uncle’s house—if that uncle had impeccable taste and a secret room full of history. The building is a gorgeous, honey-coloured stone affair that’s been standing since the 17th century. Let’s just say it’s seen more drama than a Bridgerton marathon, but it’s aged far more gracefully.

The Beer That Flows Like Gossip

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a bar that genuinely feels like it’s holding a hug. Low ceilings, crackling log fires, and a floor that tilts at an angle that suggests the building has had one too many pints itself. Don’t panic—that’s part of the character. The locals will tell you the slope helps the ale slide down your throat faster. Science.

Now, the real star of the show: the pump clips. The Duke of York is a cider and ale paradise. We’re talking proper, farm-fresh scrumpy that could double as rocket fuel, and guest ales so good you’ll want to marry them. One sip of that Rich’s Farmhouse Cider and you’ll forget what a lager shandy even is. Your taste buds will hold a parade.

Surprising Fact: The Ghost Flush

Here’s a wild nugget: this pub is allegedly haunted by a phantom toilet flusher. I’m not joking. Locals swear that the gents’ loo has a mind of its own, randomly flushing at 3 AM. Is it a poltergeist with a bladder infection? A plumber’s curse? Nobody knows, but it adds a splash of terror to your post-pub wee.

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But the Duke isn’t just about ghostly plumbing. It’s also the heart of the village, hosting everything from darts tournaments that get viciously competitive to pub quizzes where the prize is a bag of crisps and eternal glory. You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a retired farmer argue about the capital of Mongolia over a pint of stout.

The Food: Pure Comfort in a Bowl

Let’s talk grub. The Duke doesn’t mess about with foams or deconstructed nonsense. They serve proper, soul-soothing food like steak and ale pie with a pastry lid that could survive a small explosion. And the chips? Golden, salty, and illegally crispy. You’ll probably order a second portion and pretend it’s for the table. Lie to yourself all you want; we know the truth.

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Surprising fact number two: during the summer, they host a legendary BBQ in the garden that draws people from three counties. It’s basically a pilgrimage for carnivores. You’ll see bankers in suits elbow-deep in ribs and farmers in wellies swapping stories. It’s the great equaliser of Somerset.

Why You Must Go

Look, I could tell you about the friendly staff who remember your name after one visit or the beer garden that overlooks fields so green they look photoshopped. But the truth is simpler: the Duke of York is a pub that works. It’s not trying to be trendy or Instagram-famous. It’s just a brilliant, old-fashioned boozer that does everything right.

So grab your mates, your designated driver, or a good book. Pop in, order a pint, and sit by the fire. You’ll leave with a full belly, a lighter heart, and maybe a story about that ghost in the loo. Just don’t blame me if you never want to leave.