tasty and crunchy

Our Story

The past present and future are all linked

sheppey guitar by amp

About the Sheppey

Tucked away in the beautiful wilds of the Somerset Levels, The Sheppey Inn is a vibrant escape surrounded by peat moors, dairy farms, and national wildlife reserves. It’s a place that draws people from miles around, not just for its picturesque location, but for the brilliant and eclectic musicians it attracts, its fine selection of local ales and ciders, and its fantastic food.
The Sheppey has been a community hub for centuries. The pub hosts a diverse array of musical events, from open mic nights showcasing local talent to lively jam sessions and performances from bands spanning genres like funk, blues, and soul. Beyond the music, the Costigans also foster a strong sense of community with events like quizzes and the annual Godney duck race.
On the bar, you’ll find a constantly changing roster of local beers, ales, and cask ciders, including many one-offs and speciality brews. This commitment to local products is a major draw, with the pub partnering with small, local producers to showcase the best of Somerset’s rich agricultural heritage.
The food is just as much of a highlight. With a modern European menu that puts a local Somerset twist on classic dishes, the kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients to craft fantastic meals.
For those who want to simply relax, the waterside terrace is the perfect spot. Overlooking the peaceful River Sheppey, it offers a perfect vantage point for enjoying the scenery and watching for kingfishers and voles. Inside, the quirky and eclectic decor adds to the pub’s unique character, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s both a contrast to and an extension of its wild natural surroundings. Spending an afternoon here, with good food, great music, and a view of the river, is a truly special experience.
cow outside sheppey

History

For centuries, the Sheppey Inn served as a simple country pub for the farmworkers of the Somerset Levels.
Located in a 17th-century former cider house, its name comes from the nearby River Sheppey. 
For 120 years, a single family owned the establishment, and it was primarily a place for locals to enjoy cider. This tradition was famously broken in 1976 when the owners ran out of cider, resulting in a loss of trust from the local community for the following two generations. 
  • Eclectic decor: The interior is known for its quirky and unusual furnishings. Low-beamed ceilings in the bar contrast with high white walls in the barn, and decor includes 1950s furniture, art exhibitions by local artists, and guitars waiting to be played.
  • Renowned food:  A classic dish is the fish stew with smoked haddock, mussels, cod, and salmon.
  • Live music: Music became a major part of the pub’s culture, with regular live bands and a background mix of jazz, funk, and blues.
  • Critical acclaim: The pub has received high praise from national publications. It was listed as one of the best pubs in Somerset by The Guardian, while The Times called the inn “a bit bonkers”. 
The Sheppey’s new chapter
In 2020, Ben and Tamsin Costigan purchased the pub. As regulars who lived in a neighbouring village, they were keen to maintain the pub’s established spirit. 
  • Community focus: The Costigans came from a background of community work and aimed to continue fostering a strong community spirit.
  • Continued success: Under the new ownership, the Sheppey Inn has continued to thrive, maintaining its reputation for excellent food, live music, and a wide selection of local ciders.
  • Industry recognition: The inn continues to be recognised in guides like the Trencherman’s Guide and the Good Beer Guide. 
the costigans at worms head

The Owners

Ben and Tamsin Costigan purchased The Sheppey Inn in 2020 with a mission to preserve its distinctive, community-focused character. As previous regulars and residents of a nearby village, the couple was deeply familiar with the pub’s spirit and aimed to carry it forward.
A background in community work
Before moving to the Somerset Levels in 2019, Ben and Tamsin were already seasoned in grassroots community projects in their former home of Bristol.
  • They were volunteers in a project to save their local library, which was threatened by funding cuts.
  • Through their efforts, the space was reopened and transformed into a community hub, complete with a cafe and venue for events and local groups.

A passion for local community

The Costigans’ experience with the library project shaped their philosophy for running The Sheppey. Their goal was not just to operate a business but to foster a vibrant community space, which included:

  • Maintaining the pub’s emphasis on building positive local relationships.
  • Preserving the pub as a venue for live music, food, and local cider, continuing its function as a central social hub.
  • Bringing their community-focused perspective to their stewardship of the inn.

Maintaining The Sheppey‘s legacy,

Since taking over, Ben and Tamsin have continued The Sheppey‘s long-standing traditions while enhancing its reputation.

  • Customer-focused service: Customer reviews often praise Tamsin’s friendly and welcoming demeanor and Ben’s knowledgeable service, which creates a positive atmosphere.
  • Continued recognition: Under their ownership, The Sheppey has remained a highly regarded venue, featured in guides like the Trencherman’s Guide and the Good Beer Guide.
  • Local focus: They maintain the focus on local ciders and beers, continuing to draw people from surrounding areas to enjoy the countryside setting and atmosphere.

Our Kitchen Staff

Passionate about life, love and food

Meet the whole team

Our management team

Ales and cider is in their blood

Meet the whole team
  • star ratingThe Sheppy is an absolute delight tucked away in a beautiful location. On a dreich day it was so warm and welcoming. We’d booked for a birthday meal; I had... read more

    avatar thumb BellatrixLeStrange28
    9 October 2025

    star ratingOur friends introduced us to The Sheppey.
    The team are outstanding and the food is just delicious. A really lovely atmosphere and we would 100% recommend.

    avatar thumb Rebecca C
    9 October 2025

    star ratingI ate at The Sheppey on Tues and Thursday last week and had very tasty meals; the haddock and chips one night and the delicious fish stew on the Thurs... read more

    avatar thumb Morrissey1494
    8 October 2025
  • star ratingAs ever, we had a lovely chilled evening with delicious food.

    The staff were friendly and attentive. Always a warm welcome.

    A great night.

    avatar thumb OutcidersWY
    8 October 2025

    star ratingWe visited for a Sunday lunch, we picked it as it served roast later in the afternoon !
    Great staff, all super friendly all efficient and attentive.
    Lovely hub bub... read more

    avatar thumb janelB4783MY
    8 October 2025

    star ratingWe were staying in the b&b next door and was lucky enough to get a table.
    It’s not a place I would walk past and be lured in but the... read more

    avatar thumb EmmaF596
    24 August 2025
  • star ratingMultiple times return visitors

    As always food fantastic and service impeccable

    Great range of beers and ciders on tap

    Creative and affordable menu

    Lovely... read more

    avatar thumb Albia-Newton
    19 August 2025

    star ratingWe stayed at the Sheppey inn in one of their lovely rooms for 4 days, where do I start? Tamsin and Ben are fantastic hosts, they run a brilliant place... read more

    avatar thumb Chris M
    1 August 2025

    star ratingFabulous pub - Fabulous food, very good staff. The chicken burgers were the best ever. Lovely tastes. The panko breadcrumbs made a difference. Atmosphere great. I can highly recommend this pub and... read more

    avatar thumb SWCJS
    25 May 2025
  • star ratingSuperb lunch, great experience! - Firstly, the staff were so welcoming and helpful. We had the Arancini for starters (thanks to Jake's recommendation). Absolutely the best Arancini we have tasted. The mains, beef burger and... read more

    avatar thumb Mossb76
    22 May 2025

    star ratingMixed feelings. - Chicken burger was fabulous but chips, mmm rarely have and I was looking forward to them but mini french fries not chips. No salt and pepper on the table, we... read more

    avatar thumb Sally
    6 April 2025

    star ratingWonderful place - Second visit and what a lovely place. Both times have walked from Glastonbury for a lunchtime drink and food before walking back.. this time I had the fish stew, delicious.... read more

    avatar thumb Dylan999
    18 March 2025
  • star ratingA Jewel in the Somerset Levels - I visited The Sheppey Inn with a friend on a Wednesday lunchtime in March. It really is a treat, with a bohemian feel that is quite unexpected in the middle... read more

    avatar thumb neil r
    16 March 2025

    star ratingOne amazing pub-restaurant, tucked away down country lanes! - This is one amazing pub-restaurant! It is tucked away down country lanes between Wells and Glastonbury. as we approached, it seemed like a small roadside cottage but on opening the... read more

    avatar thumb johnhenden
    13 March 2025

    star ratingWhat a gem! - What a gem! A fantastic atmosphere, very friendly, helpful staff and delicious food. The fish stew was amazing, plenty of tasty fish with lovely fresh bread. Great choice of local... read more

    avatar thumb carol222014
    10 March 2025
  • star ratingAmazing service - Had Sunday lunch today with friends. We all enjoyed our meals and all mentioned how great the service was. We will definitely return.

    avatar thumb Julie C
    23 February 2025

    star ratingOne of the best pub restaurants in Somerset - Thank you so much for a lovely meal and NYE party. We said last night how wonderful the atmosphere was, we felt welcomed and part of the... read more

    avatar thumb dawnyfrench
    1 January 2025

    star ratingBrilliant Starlings. - Lovely room and what a treat to have breakfast in the room. Lovely fruit, Yoghurt, cereal, orange juice. Perfect way to start the day. Dinner was great too!

    avatar thumb ric
    1 December 2024
  • star ratingLong weekend break taking in the best of Somerset, Wells, historic, Glastonbury interesting. The levels excellent ! - Had Friday night and Saturday night evening meals, great menu offering excellent local produce. Bar staff, front of house and catering staff all smiles and very professional. Belly pork best... read more

    avatar thumb Paul U
    1 November 2024

    star ratingA great arty, quirky pub ! - A unique set up with an arty ,quirky vibe, totally unexpected from looking at the pub from outside. you can have your dinner admiring the large lino cut prints... read more

    avatar thumb Odyssey64717895085
    26 October 2024

    star ratingFantastic - Went for Sunday lunch, looked forward to it and we were not disappointed, actually, we were amazed! Great friendly, engaging staff who went the extra mile with a smile, fabulous... read more

    avatar thumb JunglieJim
    20 October 2024
  • star rating#1 + Better Than Ever! - #1 We have been going to The Sheppey for 10 years or more. It's not local so we only get to go every year or so. I am happy and... read more

    avatar thumb GlobalTrendSetter
    16 October 2024

    star ratingLovely experience - Give it a Try - I Think you'll Like it. - it was a while since I went here last and I noted that some of the 'quirkiness' had been toned down since my last visit but it was... read more

    avatar thumb Gerry U
    9 October 2024

    star ratingSuperb country inn - Terrific pub/ restaurant on the Somerset levels . Great food and ambience and wonderful staff . Superb outdoor area right on the river sheppey . This... read more

    avatar thumb 977johnny
    1 September 2024
  • star ratingLooking for something amazing… - What a place. Looks like you are in the middle of nowhere and then you find this place. Food out of this world. Staff amazing. Best pork roast ever, and... read more

    avatar thumb Darren P
    14 August 2024

    star ratingFabulous place for a big family group - The Sheppey Inn were fantastic for a big family meal of 28 people . Very organised preordering system which worked a treat on the night. Staff delightful , food delicious... read more

    avatar thumb Lois C
    11 August 2024

    star ratingPerfect - Absolutely delicious food - can't fault it. Service was great and the manager was really nice. Could have done without the dolls, but otherwise perfect

    avatar thumb Rebecca L
    4 August 2024
  • We had a fantastic family Sunday lunch at The Sheppey, food was amazing, l am coeliac and they were so attentive, best gluten free yorkshire pudding ever, the staff were brilliant, so kind and friendly- we were a large party, and the place was busy, but service was top notch, one of our party had a funny turn and the kindness shown was so lovely. Great food, great staff, great location, we will be back- thank you

    Suzanne Becker Avatar Suzanne Becker
    17 October 2025

    Great pub, good variety of beers and friendly service. Food is a bit pricey and a bit too fancy in my opinion

    Marie Jansen Avatar Marie Jansen
    14 October 2025

    Lovely food and excellent staff.

    Robin Russell Avatar Robin Russell
    13 October 2025
  • A fantastic local pub with a wonderful drinks list (plenty of local cider and beers) and the food was delicious. The fish and chips was cooked to perfection. All of the staff were really attentive and friendly. We’re looking forward to returning for a music night!

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    Maria Maeso Avatar Maria Maeso
    10 October 2025

    Legendary pub in the middle of Godney on the Thomerset Levels. Easy to myth.

    R. Windle Avatar R. Windle
    10 October 2025

    14 of us a had a great Sunday lunch here. Great food in relaxed atmosphere. What a quirky place.

    Benjamin Wood Avatar Benjamin Wood
    9 October 2025
  • Dropped in today for lunch with my Mum. We had starters and a drink. A very nice IPA zero, Pea and mint soup and a King Prawn cocktail. The servings were ample, beautifully presented and the focaccia wonderful. Tamsin and her husband were very welcoming, attentive and extremely personable. We had a lovely time thank you very much

    Alyssa Hawkins Avatar Alyssa Hawkins
    7 October 2025

    Great food & service. Lovely outdoor seating

    Nik Al & Herb Avatar Nik Al & Herb
    7 October 2025

    We all had the roast beef dinner, out of a great choice of food, during our Sunday visit. Absolutely delicious, well cooked and beautifully presented. Attentive & polite waiting staff. It's probably the best restaurant around Glastonbury. It's quirky, spacious and there's a great selection of beers and wine. I've eaten there for years and the quality is always top notch.

    Maggie Dear Avatar Maggie Dear
    6 October 2025
  • Good meal and good service. The vegetarian option was very small, not great to leave a meal hungry still. Overall, not bad and would recommend.

    Jan Chandler Avatar Jan Chandler
    5 October 2025

    Visited The Sheppy whilst staying near by. Was greeted by Ben and his wife who were very accommodating. Staff also very friendly and The food is outstanding. Was made to feel very welcomed whilst on our holiday. Will certainly be back.

    Alison Willcock Avatar Alison Willcock
    23 September 2025

    Nice pub, friendly and helpful staff. Very nice food.

    Phil Avatar Phil
    21 September 2025
  • Loved our visit for lunch! Full of character and charm with fantastic food and service, The Sheppey is well worth it.

    Adam Avatar Adam
    11 September 2025

    Absolute proper gert lush gem in the middle of nowhere. Food is brilliant and the atmosphere's fun, unique and genuine. Good with family or mates or with a date

    Reuben Saunders Avatar Reuben Saunders
    3 September 2025

    Lovely location. A few craft beers, but nothing too exciting. A little on the pricey side.

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    Paul Morris Avatar Paul Morris
    26 August 2025
  • This was our first time at The Sheppey, staff and food was excellent, parking wasn't great, but we got lucky, but what a lovely place

    Karen Richardson Avatar Karen Richardson
    24 August 2025

    Amazing pub. Best pub food I have had in a long time. A choice of nice vegan meals is a real treat.. and pudding. Beautiful ❤️

    Frances Hair Avatar Frances Hair
    19 August 2025

    Beautiful setting right on the Somerset Levels. Superb Sunday lunch with all the trimmings.

    Mike Ledwith Avatar Mike Ledwith
    19 August 2025
  • Great food and service.

    Oliver Juras Avatar Oliver Juras
    19 August 2025

    Schönes Restaurant, am Kanal Sheppey gelegen. Wir hatten reserviert und saßen auf der Terrasse, am Kanal. Die Auswahl der Gerichte war gut, es gab verschiedene Fischgerichte. Der Service war zuvorkommend. Es wurde zwischendurch nach dem Befinden gefragt. Es gab Live-Musik einer Band. Und für uns ganz wichtig und gut: Das Trinkgeld stand, nicht, wie in anderen Restaurants, schon auf der Rechnung, sondern konnte individuell während des Bezahlvorgangs gewählt werden. Es war ein rundum gelungenes Restaurant-Erlebnis.

    Petra Seiler Avatar Petra Seiler
    19 August 2025

    A wonderful gem for a dinner out. Great atmosphere, menu and staff, great location, quirky decor, dog friendly too - a wonderful evening x

    Emily Taylor Avatar Emily Taylor
    29 July 2025
  • Didn't use the accommodation, just the restaurant. Lovely quirky place. Good choice of eating outside or in. The food and service was excellent. It's a little pricey but is well worth the trip. There is no car park, just along the roadside. Keep that in mind if you can't walk to far.

    Richard Heath Avatar Richard Heath
    26 July 2025

    My favourite pub in the area. A good choice of self serve local scrumpy cider which is ideal! there is a good choice of ales also but I like to have a few Wilkins or Hecks when visiting the area. The location is fanstastic, right within the somerset levels and near nature reserves. It is very unique, quirky and fun which makes a great atmosphere! love the choice of music they usually have at the bar area. I've always found the bar staff and owners really friendly and accommodating, got chatting to a few locals also who were nice. Great place!

    Freddy Gardner Avatar Freddy Gardner
    26 July 2025

    Fantastic little find on recommendation from the festival staff at Godney Gathering festival

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    Sarah Calvert Avatar Sarah Calvert
    26 July 2025
  • Toller Pub mit sehr leckerem Essen. Wir haben uns sehr wohlgefühlt.

    Torsten Büssow Avatar Torsten Büssow
    26 July 2025

    Picked the Sheppey knowing nothing about it but it being a good mid point for a mate and myself. Absolute gem of a pub. Food was amazing, setting is beautiful and fantastic choice of cask and craft beer The locals are extremely lucky.

    TheOnly Nemesis Avatar TheOnly Nemesis
    26 July 2025

    Gorgeously located place right on the river serving amazing food. Service was excellent and the food was amazing. Wide range of drinks too so plenty to appeal to everyone!

    Nathan Morrison Avatar Nathan Morrison
    26 July 2025
  • had lunch today to celebrate my Wife's Birthday. lovely service, excellent food and really unique delightful pub!

    Charles Mason Avatar Charles Mason
    24 July 2025

    Lovely food prompt service . Unique interior

    Philomena Kilgour Avatar Philomena Kilgour
    1 September 2023

    Called in for lunch Thursday and extremely glad we did. A very varied and interesting menu. The welcome was warm and friendly with everyone ensuring everything was perfect. The food was truly outstanding and presented perfectly. We will, without a doubt, return.

    Jerry Sadler Avatar Jerry Sadler
    22 July 2023
  • What a place. Was blown away upon opening the door. Amazing vibe, awesome roast and staff. Love it, will be back.

    Stuart Meale Avatar Stuart Meale
    18 June 2023

    Boss Sunday lunch with a twist. Unique location. Top friendly staff. Great value for money.

    Justin Parsons Avatar Justin Parsons
    18 September 2022

    Lovely pub, excellent roast beef dinner - lovely selection of alcoholic beverages

    Tina Marie Barnes Avatar Tina Marie Barnes
    11 September 2022
  • Weird and wonderful. Lovely staff and gorgeous food.

    Denys Rasmussen Avatar Denys Rasmussen
    31 August 2022

    Wonderful pub filled with incredibly welcoming staff and regulars, great food and service and I can't wait to come back already! 5⭐️

    Niamh Cox Avatar Niamh Cox
    31 August 2022

    love coming here but the prices are a bit steep, so it's not somewhere where you could come every night

    Iain Jones Avatar Iain Jones
    23 August 2022
  • Superb food and very friendly, helpful staff. 5 stars!

    Dave Fairweather Avatar Dave Fairweather
    17 July 2022

    Great food, great drinks, great location - just great.

    Robert Comley Avatar Robert Comley
    14 July 2022

    Our favourite Somerset pub!

    Sophie Glanville Avatar Sophie Glanville
    22 June 2022
  • Quirky place that has real atmosphere and superb food! It’s worth the drive!!

    Rob Jones Avatar Rob Jones
    16 June 2022

    amazing service from bar to food ordering. .best mashed peas ever loved the raspberry in the coke see you Thursday

    Mike Peters Avatar Mike Peters
    24 May 2022

    we have just had a wonderful 2 nights staying here. the staff are faultless, the room was very comfortable and spacious. the food superb (and I am not easily pleased!). would highly recommend a visit!

    Charlotte Barnes Avatar Charlotte Barnes
    8 May 2022
  • Quirky venue on the river, live music, great staff & gorgeous food!

    Julie Matthews Avatar Julie Matthews
    24 April 2022

    Very friendly staff. Delicious food. Great atmosphere!

    Tracy Bridges Avatar Tracy Bridges
    24 April 2022

    The best night at The Sheppey Inn catching up with my old college pal of 33 years. Great atmosphere, friendly welcoming team and delicious food. We loved it. We’re already planning our next time. Wish we lived closer!

    Gemma Evans Avatar Gemma Evans
    15 April 2022
  • Great pub, great beer and although we didn't eat the food looked great.

    Ian Forman Avatar Ian Forman
    14 April 2022

    Tip top Sunday Lunch as usual!

    James Bunce Avatar James Bunce
    16 January 2022

    The decor is very quirky with lots unusual things put together, but it works. It’s a fun atmosphere. The staff are extremely warm and friendly. The service is excellent. I have to say the food is amazing. The mussels and Chorizo starter is to die for. I would thoroughly recommend this place.

    Julie Johnson Avatar Julie Johnson
    21 November 2021
  • Accidentally drove through Godney today and stumbled upon the Sheppey. What an amazing pub with lovely, friendly staff, amazing atmosphere and scenery. We will definitely be visiting again.

    Rachel Amelia Evie Avatar Rachel Amelia Evie
    16 November 2021

    Love it, Super fun Local country vibey place. Great service

    Real Reviews Avatar Real Reviews
    5 November 2021

    Lovely food, great atmosphere!

    Heather Wilson Avatar Heather Wilson
    31 October 2021
  • I really don’t know if I’ve been here

    Carol Westwood Avatar Carol Westwood
    30 October 2021

    Excellent food and beer as described by many. Was not disappointed by that at all. Tried to recommend and tell friends but was informed there is no Wi-Fi here and no 3G or 4G signal. Small thing but mentioned for info. Still a top place.

    Tim Walsh Avatar Tim Walsh
    22 October 2021

    Wow! What a fabulous place. The most warm welcome I have ever received. The staff are attentive and make sure you want for nothing. The food is outstanding (and I’m fussy) I would especially urge you to order a ‘posh gin’ I can’t explain how good it is. Special shout out to Toby who served us tonight, what a fantastic and helpful man. Can’t wait to book again. Thank you so much for making out family evening such a memorable one.

    Casey Reddin Avatar Casey Reddin
    25 September 2021