Knapp Road, Knapp
Taunton, TA3 6BG
01823 491027
About Us
Local Somerset historian Angela Dix, was kind enough to provide some history of the The Rising Sun...
There is evidence to suggest that the origins of the building are pre c1500. Originally, likely a longhouse with animal byre or possibly built as an Open Hall house rebuilt in the 16c when the fireplace was inserted. In the 1881 Census Return the Woodman family were listed as residing in the Rising Sun Inn - with John Woodman the Inn keeper. More can be read here.
The pub is now owned by Barry & Sarnia McGoun and managed by chef Olly Jackson and his wife, Rebecca. Olly & Becs previously ran the Langford, in Fivehead. They have brought Olly's skilful cooking to the more relaxed environment of The Rising Sun, without compromise.
Meet The Core Team
Olly
Head Chef
Olly went to catering college in Northampton when he was 16 and qualified in all areas of professional cookery.
He has worked in 2-AA rosette restaurants for most of his career and has featured in The Good Food Guide as a Head Chef for 12 years.
Matt
Olly' s
right-hand man
Matt came to catering later in life, his roots are in using the best local produce and having worked at River Cottage, provenance is key. Matt supported Olly at The Langford and is now responsible for our beautiful and innovative desserts and super bread.
Becs
The buck stops here
Becs fell into hospitality and really found her feet when she worked for the original Hotel Inspector, Ruth Watson. Working under Ruth's guidance Becs developed her unique style of service, a passion for the industry and an understanding that the customer is key.
Sam
Bar Supervisor
Sam is developing his role in hospitality and is keen to broaden his knowledge in the Beverage side of F&B. He has recently completed his WSET L2 with excellent results, so is the go-to person for wine recommendations and bespoke cocktails.
A team is not a team without the support staff...
Wendy who keeps the pub fresh and clean / Caroline who preps for Olly during the day / Ed & Owen who KP at night
Maria who looks after the day shift during the week - and Cath who covers Saturday lunch
Karnya who is a demon behind the bar / Little Olly (not very little) who runs food / Mel who covers Bec's nights off and Sunday lunch
Plus Alex and Emma who pop in when they're not at Uni!
What's being said ...
1
Taste of The West Judge
"A little gem on the edge of Taunton and there should be more of these dining pubs around that shine quality. I know it is good as I haven’t stopped telling people and recommending it to others"
2
The Good Food Guide Weekly
“Reports praise the good value, 'the best Sunday lunch imaginable' and great service”
3
Trip Advisor Review
"Fast becoming our favourite venue, the Rising Sun manages to combine great service with even greater food.The small range of dishes on the menu is evidence of the quality of the food and the care with which it's prepared.