Sister pub to the infamous Hawley Arms, The Wilmington Arms remains one of the finest pubs around.

The Venue
Sat adjacent to one end of Exmouth Market, The Wilmington Arms is a visually striking pub, owning its corner with a mighty presence.

Spacious and grand, wooden floorboards somehow milk the light from the sun that's able to break through large windows. The furniture is a mixture of the formally arranged salvaged items for dining and a host of reclaimed Chesterfields and booths that lend the place a lived in comfort.

There's a communal feel to the two large rooms with a lo-fi design ethic that adds personality. The Mr. Potato Head collection along with the wall of Polaroids and signed photos deserve special mention.

There is also a live music venue stashed away behind a set of mirrored doors. It's an intimate space that's capable of accommodating a good crowd.

The Atmosphere
The plentiful tables make for a good lunchtime hangout and the creative industry types in the area know it well. You’ll see business conducted in selvedge denim on Apple iPads rather than suits and briefcases and the atmosphere reflects this relaxed attitude. Despite hardly being the average local, it does seem to breed regulars and there’s a knowingly warm relationship between staff and customers. Evenings are lively, and with an awesome free jukebox, The Wilmington gives you that little bit more than most.

The venue in the back is a perfect live space and it is often home to intimate gigs. To go with the live acts of the past, notably the likes of Mumford and Sons have played here, it hosts comedy and DJs too.

The Food
Despite its gastropub appearance, the food is just adequately simple. All ingredients are fresh and there’s a specials board that risks a little more adventure, but the menu is short. Fish and chips (£9) and bangers and mash (£8) support Pieminister pies and mash (£9) as the brunt of the options. There’s also a homemade burger (£7.50), which is as good as you’ll get in most pubs.

The Drink
Up behind the bar, between some peculiar idiosyncrasies, is a large range of spirits. Pernot anyone? A well curated wine list adorns the tables and house prices start at around £13.50 a bottle. There are imported lagers by the bottle and draught includes Budvar, San Miguel, Becks Vier and the £4.20 a pint, Peroni. ‘Pump Action’ reads the sign, and along with IPA, there are real ale rarities on rotation. Lock and load.

The Last Word
A solid menu, a good choice of draught beers and boundless entertainment, The Wilmington Arms is a pleasure on all counts.

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