The Five Bells Inn - Mid Devon

This place is a little gem, well worth the detour from Tiverton if you are passing through Devon or Somerset. read more This place is a little gem, well worth the detour from Tiverton if you are passing through Devon or Somerset.

Delicious food - not cheap and not vast quantities, but very filling, beautifully presented and always a unique combination of flavours. read more Delicious food - not cheap and not vast quantities, but very filling, beautifully presented and always a unique combination of flavours.

My brother recently celebrated his wedding at The Five Bells, and everything was perfect. read more My brother recently celebrated his wedding at The Five Bells, and everything was perfect.

I know that cancellation policies are in place for a reason, for the 'no shows ' and for people who do not respect the 24 hour cancellation policy. I can only a... read more I know that cancellation policies are in place for a reason, for the 'no shows ' and for people who do not respect the 24 hour cancellation policy. I can only assume that this is the reason that this establishment has this in place. Sadly, on the morning of the booking, I had to rush my father to A and E. My husband rang to let the restaurant know as soon as we knew that we would not make it. This was because we cared and wanted them to be informed as soon as possible and provide them with the opportunity of securing another booking. My husband rang at his earliest opportunity which was about 9.30 am. We were aware that the restaurant does not open until 12 but we wanted to reach them as quickly as possible. The answering machine came on so my husband kept trying until he eventually got hold of someone. Once my father’s condition stabilised, I also emailed the restaurant to extend our sincere apology and to explain the situation. During the telephone conversation I am speechless not about the non-refundable deposit) but about how the restaurant responded. Even if the manager was not prepared to change our booking to another day, could she not have been more kind with her response? At least 'a sorry to hear about your father, but unfortunately... ' The whole telephone manner was rude, abrupt, and uncaring. I understand that business is business but please have a heart as well. This is why I am writing this review. We were not being rude or abrupt. This was about a family emergency and we were letting you know whilst in the midst of it all. This was a booking for two people, not a party of 10. Does the restaurant not operate a waiting list? Did they make every effort to find customers to replace our booking? Times are tough for many of us right now and a little bit of human kindness goes a long way whilst citing your well publicised terms and conditions.

We had a fantastic Sunday lunch at this restaurant. The service was friendly, efficient, and polite. The food was delicious and enjoyed by the entire family. I... read more We had a fantastic Sunday lunch at this restaurant. The service was friendly, efficient, and polite. The food was delicious and enjoyed by the entire family. I would highly recommend this cozy and welcoming pub to anyone in the area.