MEET YOUR LOCAL
by Laura Hitchcock
Meet Your Local: The Old Inn, Holton
Our regular column in which you discover the faces and stories behind the pub sign. This month we’ve been chatting to Phil at The Old Inn in Holton, near Wincanton. Multi-award-winning ‘The Old Inn’ at Holton, just outside Wincanton
The Old Inn at Holton is run by Phil Kent. How did you end up at The Old Inn?
Before The Old Inn, I was working as an executive chef for a large company in Lincolnshire. However, fancying new challenges and to be nearer family , I headed down South. A chance visit took me to The Old Inn and I immediately fell in love with it’s charm and community feel. It had so much potential and when it came on the market it was an opportunity I just couldn’t pass up.
What’s your favourite local place to visit on an afternoon off?
On those rare occasions a chef manages to get an an afternoon off and being a small independent business myself,
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I believe it’s important to support local. There are a few firm favourites including The Bath Arms at Horningsham, The Beckford Arms at Beckford and The Nog Inn, Wincanton.
Phil at work in his kitchens at The Old Inn
Tell us about your 2020... Unfortunately, being classed as one of the extremely vulnerable myself, The Old Inn was closed completely during the lockdowns. However, I have managed to put a positive spin on this by adding accommodation to the establishment, giving her a thorough freshen up and revamped the menu.
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