It's been precisely two years since my last visit to Mount Pleasant B&B in Chapel Allerton and I'm pleased to say that its reputation has remained unchanged - this is still the gorgeously quirky countryside dream that it was in 2017 and I'm thrilled to see that it's going from strength to strength.
With a few more awards under her belt, Daisy (Mount Pleasant's creator) continues to over-deliver with her truly special getaway.
If you fancy a trip back in time to read my first review of Mount Pleasant, then you can follow this link - otherwise, let me fill you in on what's been a wonderful belated birthday trip.
A modest 35 minute drive from the centre of Bristol and we arrived at the B&B, appetites rife and excitement in full swing . We headed inside to drop our bags off to our room, which this year was the 'The Swallows' - one of four perfectly-formed and equally beautiful rooms. Just like I remembered, we were welcomed by homemade treats baked by Daisy herself, stunning statement interiors (hello Gold Leaf tiles) and a bed that we couldn't resist throwing ourselves onto.
After a quick freshen-up, we headed down to one of the local pubs that Daisy recommended, 'The Swan' - a great little spot that's a short seven minute drive away from the B&B in the nearby village of Wedmore.
Funnily enough, this was where my mum and I ate for dinner last time - however, I was pleased to experience the pub in a more informal lunch setting. The menu is impressive and diverse, compromising both of British pub 'classics' and other more experimental offerings - as a vegetarian / vegan / whatever I feel like that month eater, I was very content to see a number of mouth-watering meat-free dishes on the list.
Once we had settled on our table by the open-fire, Devonshire cider in hand - we selected our choices; Fluffy focaccia and dipping oil to share, followed by a steak and dijonnaise ciabatta for James and a quinoa and roasted root vegetable salad with some skinny fries for myself. Perfect grub that was enjoyed in a cosy Somerset setting - what more could you ask for on a cold winter Saturday?
Our evening was spent relaxing downstairs over a bottle of wine and a slightly competitive game of Scrabble. Daisy had recently put up her Christmas decorations, so the B&B was looking incredibly festive - a much-needed boost to get me feeling ready for the holiday season. James was put on fire duty, so was attending to its needs with logs whilst we vegetated on the sofa chatting.
It's lovely to be able to make the most of the communal space here, something which I didn't do previously - in the darker months, all I want to do is get snug so this felt joyous.
The next morning, we woke to the smell of freshly cooked breakfasts from downstairs - Daisy was in the kitchen and I couldn't wait to join her. In the relaxed dining area, there's a breakfast cabinet stocked with homemade granolas and cereal, fresh fruit, organic yoghurts, local sourdough and all the spreads and toppings you could ever hope for.
Following on from our breakfast 'starter', we each opted for a delicious full english - both fit for a vegetarian and a keen meat-eater, both utterly mouth-watering.
Sat amongst the gentle murmur of other guests and the tranquility of the green surroundings, rest assured you'll leave wanting to spend every Sunday morning this way.
Feeling comfortably full, we decided to stretch our legs and take a walk up to the neighbouring (and slightly famous) Ashton Windmill - an interesting visit considering I've never actually seen a real Windmill before. Due to the location of Mount Pleasant, there's plenty of walking to be done - so i'd highly recommend fitting this into the itinerary of your stay. After all, that means more room for pub lunches, right?
Alas, i'm writing this on Sunday afternoon fresh from returning from another marvellous stay at Mount Pleasant - albeit, still stuffed from weekend indulgences, but also full with gratitude.
I've commended Daisy and Mount Pleasant before, but it must be said again - this is truly a magnificent gem. Not to mention, incredibly affordable with Bed & Breakfast prices starting from £95!
With two winter-visits down, I'm looking forward to planning another stay in the summer - her outdoor pool and a bottle of Provence Rose has my name all over it.
To book a night's stay at Mount Pleasant, follow this link: http://bit.ly/2L8GnUH
