Thatcher’s-owned pub The Railway Inn has been awarded a coveted Double AA Rosette.

The pub in Sandford, North Somerset, is described as ‘a traditional country pub with a contemporary restaurant which is “worth a detour.”

The Railway Inn joins the top ranks of UK restaurants, with just ten per cent worthy of one or more rosettes.

The venue is nestled at the foot of the Mendip Hills and on the Strawberry Line National Cycle Network. The restaurant combines a traditional country pub lounge and large, family-friendly outdoor space making it a must-visit for locals, dog-walkers, foodies and, of course, cider lovers.

Boasting a four-star average on TripAdvisor, many guests have left raving reviews about their “excellent” Sunday roasts.

Judges described The Railway Inn as being home to “accomplished cooking and local ciders.” According to the AA, to achieve the high standard of two rosettes the chef must show “greater technical skill, more consistency and judgement in combining and balancing ingredients, and have a clear ambition to achieve high standards”.

James Davidson, head chef at The Railway Inn, said: “We are beyond delighted to be recognised in these prestigious awards and honoured with not just one, but two AA Rosettes. We dedicate ourselves to giving customers an elevated dining experience; using fresh, local and sustainable ingredients to create dishes that delight and are worthy of accompanying a Thatchers Cider”.

Introduced in 1956, the AA Rosette award was the first nationwide scheme for assessing the quality of food served by restaurants and hotels. The AA's team of inspectors, who have a wealth of experience in assessing quality throughout the UK, say “receiving the award is a huge achievement not to be underestimated”. Inspectors will visit a hotel or restaurant on one or more occasions to decide whether the establishment is worthy of the accolade.

Leigh Damerell, Railway Inn ,anager, said: “A warm welcome awaits you at The Railway Inn, our award-winning pub and restaurant, perfectly nestled at the foot of the Mendip Hills and on the Strawberry Line National Cycle Network. Our stunning restaurant with traditional country pub lounge and large, family-friendly outdoor space, make it a must-visit for locals, first timers, dog-walkers, cider lovers and especially, with our new Double AA Rosette – foodies!”

The pub is open Wednesday – Sunday and throughout summer holidays and bank holidays.