A PUB in Taunton has undergone a facelift and a significant kitchen redevelopment with plans to upgrade the garden, car park and internal décor.

Steve Baker and Simon Preston-Jones, the owners of The Merry Monk in Monkton Heathfield, Taunton, are keen to invest in the pub to enhance the customer experience and so far feedback has been positive.

With a shake-up completely changing the kitchen team, Steve, a butcher for over 40 years, explained a key selling point of The Merry Monk’s "Famous Carvery":

"All meat is sourced locally within the West Country, with butchering done in-house by myself, as well as using local fresh vegetables."

Customers can purchase two carveries for £22 Monday-Friday, with a separate menu available including pub classics and more.

Angie Merrick, who has been manager at The Merry Monk for 11 years has moulded a strong team and is excited about The Merry Monk’s future.

Angie said: "The new-look pub is great. We also want to help support our local community and we will continue to put on charity events like the successful race night in April.

"We are bringing in another opportunity to raise money as we are hosting a Macmillan coffee morning on Friday, September 27.’’

The improvements planned for next year will have the potential to host more community events, both inside and outside.

The refurbished pub has been given a modern uplift as it looks to attract new and returning customers. (Image: Harry Mockridge/Newsquest) Steve and Simon’s other investment is in staff, through training and an emphasis on youth with a philosophy of allowing young people to work their way up through promotion.

The pub has established a relationship with Taunton and Bridgwater College and is keen to offer apprenticeship opportunities.

The pub is hoping to attract new and returning customers through "reasonably priced" food and drinks, as well as offering facilities for family occasions including birthdays, christenings and wakes.

The menu changes seasonally and customers can expect the next change in early October, and the Christmas menu is available to view and bookings can be made at themerrymonk.co.uk.

You can visit the new-look pub at Monkton Heathfield, Taunton, TA2 8NE.