WHEN out in Taunton for a drink there are not many better options than the Castle Green area which hosts some popular pubs and bars in Taunton.

Situated near Hideout, another popular drinking spot, Mackenzies resides in Castle Green.

Well-known for its coffee liqueur shots and wide range of cocktails, the bar has gone from strength to strength since opening during the Covid pandemic providing events such as live sport and entertainment.

Furnished with wooden tables and leather seating, the bar is an ideal evening setting.

Speaking at the time, Gael Mackenzie, the owner of Mackenzies, said, "We aim to be a great addition to Taunton's vibrant food and restaurant scene.

“It's a great place to meet your friends, socialise after work or spend a laid-back afternoon."

Fast forward to 2024, and Mackenzies is still in the Castle Green area in Taunton selling a variety of drinks and food options.

Since its opening, the bar has made a few subtle changes but it has mostly stayed the same since taking the place of another Taunton Pub, the Winchester Arms.

The bar is open all week from 9 am-10 pm, staying open until 2 am on weekends.

Mr Mackenzie, who already operates outlets in Bristol and Swindon, was ecstatic at the time of the opening. He said: "I'm really looking forward to opening.

"We're going to have some great weekend weather and it will be good to welcome people."

He added: "The building is in a great location, a lovely public realm space all day and all night.

"I fell in love with it when I saw it.”

When asked why Castle Green, Mr Mackenzie described the location of the old Winchester Arms as the perfect place to start building his new bar.

"It had become decrepit (the Winchester Arms building) and needed some TLC, it was a wonderful building to restore."