Pubs have always been a cornerstone of community life, and here at SomersetLive, we cherish the role they play in bringing people together. This year, we asked our readers to nominate their favourite pubs across Somerset for our Pub of the Year award. From the flood of recommendations, the Commercial Inn in Bridgwater has emerged as a standout, despite the team running it being less than twelve months in.
Located on Redgate Street, the Commercial Inn is a gem of history and community spirit. With its origins dating back to the late 1800s, it’s the last pub remaining in this part of Bridgwater. Kayleigh Howitt and her partner Liam Murphy, along with their dedicated team, have taken the helm and injected new energy into this much-loved local.
The secret to the pub’s appeal? Kayleigh points to the strong team spirit, the welcoming locals, and the vibrant community atmosphere that makes the Commercial Inn more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a real community hub.
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Though the team is still fresh to the business, they’ve quickly become known for their pop-up food events featuring local vendors, keeping the menu exciting and fresh. Music lovers can enjoy a varied selection from their jukebox, which plays everything from classic hits to contemporary tunes, adding to the lively ambiance.
Some of the pub’s best moments include the overwhelming joy of their opening party and the unforgettable memories they’ve shared with patrons over the past year. For Kayleigh, being named Pub of the Year would be a huge milestone—recognizing the hard work, friendships, and community bonds forged since taking ownership.
Looking ahead to 2025, Kayleigh emphasizes the importance of supporting local pubs. Beyond just a place to drink, pubs like the Commercial Inn are vital to keeping communities alive and welcoming people of all ages to share moments, music, food, and laughter.
As voting opens for Somerset’s top pubs, the Commercial Inn stands proud as a symbol of resilience and community spirit, proving that even the last pub standing can be a thriving heart of its town.