I was fortunate to spend some weeks in a village that once was a town in Southern England. South Petherton is close to the the city of Exeter but visitors would do wise to rent a car as travel by rail and buss is relatively cumbersome. I rented a cottage for a few weeks and my hosts Charles and Thyra Frumer were the best one could hope for. The location of this cottage was also ideal for someone interested in cooking and local produce. Somerset is one of the areas in Great Britain where cider is produced and I visited a traditional producer of cider by cycle one day.
The centre of this village is in many ways a pub or local where everyone is wished welcome. This pub the Brewers Arms has been awarded prizes for its excellent selection of Real Ales . The food was also excellent especially a North African rendition of Moroccan Lamb.
The village is also blessed with a beautiful Anglican church at its centre. I was fortunate to be there when a gospel choir held a performance. There is an artisanal baker and butcher. I purchased some venison that seemed somewhat neutral in taste in comparison to Norwegian reindeer.
Provender is a smart and well run café and store that has a selection that is matched by few stores in Norway. The Cheese selection was excellent and I purchased some cave aged Gruyere to take home.
All in all my stay was pleasant. Everyone was friendly and open regarding a visitor from Norway.
I hope to visit again some time and have recommended a stay to friends who would like to spend time in a beautiful and friendly village close to the great Cathedral city of Exeter.
