Canal Inn, near Taunton, to reopen slightly different

The Canal Inn near Taunton is set to reopen slightly differently from how it was before. <i>(Image: Canal Inn)</i>
The Canal Inn near Taunton is set to reopen slightly differently from how it was before. (Image: Canal Inn)
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A SOMERSET A-road pub near Taunton is reopening its doors, but its owner says things will be operated slightly differently than before.

The Canal Inn, situated on the A378 in Somerset, near Taunton, is set to reopen on Friday, November 21, but it will now be "more of a venue for events and private hire", according to its owner.


READ MORE: Canal Inn, near Taunton, closed with relaunch possible

READ MORE: The Canal Inn's 'outstanding' all-day Sunday lunch on Somerset Levels


Run by Ollie Purvis, the pub, which has over 200 years of history to its name, was closed on Sunday, August 3, with Ollie saying, "This isn't goodbye forever".

The pub owner announced the closure "with a heavy heart", stating that he wanted to prioritise some time for himself via a "well-needed" vacation and chance to reset. He signed off by saying that the pub would be relaunched "when the time is right", ready for the next chapter.

Since the Canal Inn closed, it has been occasionally used as an events space, and its future looks set to go that way. Ollie has offered the pub out for events via social media, and you can find out more by contacting him. He says the pub is a "perfect venue" for birthdays, weddings, family gatherings, and work Christmas parties.

There is no confirmation that the Canal Inn will fully reopen as a pub again.

To make a booking or find out more, email thecanalinn.somerset@gmail.com.

Pub owner and chef, Ollie, will be joined by Merrick Webber, who has worked in "some of the best" Michelin-starred restaurants in the country.

Speaking via social media, a spokesperson from the pub said: "The wait is almost over.

"We open our doors on Friday, November 21, and to launch our festive season, Ollie and Merrick are bringing Taunton a dining experience like no other.

"With Merrick’s background working in some of the world’s best Michelin-starred restaurants, and Ollie’s passion for local flavour and creativity, the pair are crafting a tasting menu that’s bold, refined, and unforgettable.

"This exclusive event marks the beginning of our December festivities, offering a first glimpse of what’s to come as we bring something fresh, exciting, and full of flavour to The Canal Inn."

You can find the pub at The Far Canal, Wrantage, Taunton TA3 6DF.

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