For most travellers, the A303 is merely a busy route weaving through the South West’s picturesque countryside on the way to Cornwall. But for Somerset locals Sophie Miles and Kris Welch, this bustling road became the foundation for something special: a thriving family-run café and restaurant called The Hub 303.
Located just behind a Texaco garage near Tintinhull, just outside Yeovil, The Hub 303 is a well-kept secret in the area. “We’ve done everything ourselves—from renovating the building to running two businesses with three young kids alongside us,” says Sophie, 37, the café’s founder and owner. “No outside help, just hard graft and lots of passion.”
The Hub 303 isn’t just a café. It houses the Somer Thyme Restaurant, offering more refined sit-down meals alongside a grab-and-go service, catering both to passing trade and local diners. “The left side is grab-and-go, perfect for quick stops, while the right side offers proper meals—dinners, Sunday carvery, and more,” Sophie explains.
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Originally based in Martock, Sophie and Kris expanded from their first venue after outgrowing the space, moving just minutes down the road and naming their new café after the A303 itself. However, visibility has been their biggest struggle. “We’re tucked away behind a petrol station and aren’t allowed signage on the road, so many people don’t even know we exist,” Sophie admits.
Inside, The Hub 303 is a warm, community-focused spot with a commitment to quality. Everything is homemade using locally sourced ingredients—from freshly baked scones to hearty curries and burgers. And it’s a true family-friendly destination, welcoming children with a dedicated menu, baby-changing facilities, disabled access, and a beloved outdoor pirate ship play area—a favorite inherited from previous owners. “The pirate ship still draws families in, and we’re planning to add a swing soon,” Sophie shares with a smile.
The menu keeps things fresh and exciting with themed nights such as Chinese, Indian, and tapas evenings, plus special offers like two burgers for £25 on Fridays and kids eating for just £6. The Sunday carvery, launched last September, has been a standout success. “We started serving about 80 covers weekly, and while numbers have settled to around 45-50, it remains hugely popular,” Sophie says. Reservations for Sunday carvery are highly recommended.
Before The Hub 303, Sophie and Kris ran Country Plate Catering, a wedding and private dining business that serves as the bedrock of their culinary expertise. Kris, a chef with 15 years’ experience, started the business when their eldest child was just six months old. Their reputation has earned them spots on recommended supplier lists for prestigious venues in the region.
Looking ahead, the couple plans to add livelier community events at The Hub 303. With a licensed bar and lovely garden, they envision summer evenings featuring live music, pizza ovens, and barbecues. “We just need locals to come and enjoy what we’ve created,” Sophie says.
Despite their unwavering commitment, Sophie acknowledges the harsh reality: lack of visibility threatens their survival. Employing around 25 people across their ventures, growth is possible only if more customers discover the café. Efforts to secure signage have so far been hindered by regulations, and the looming Cartgate Welcome Break development nearby could introduce large chains that may overshadow small family businesses like theirs.
Sophie’s message to locals is clear: “Come and try us. Everything is homemade, we support local suppliers, and we offer something for everyone—breakfast, lunch, dinner, cakes, and events. We’re not just a roadside diner; we’re a proper restaurant.”
Their hope is that within a year, The Hub 303 will enjoy steady patronage, visible signage, and a thriving local community embracing the space as their own. “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built and just want people to come in and see for themselves.”