If there’s one thing that really makes a holiday special, it’s discovering a really good pub! A good country pub or bar is at the heart of a great British holiday. Fortunately, in Devon we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs. Many of them are family and dog friendly too, some with beer gardens and regular live music.
So, if you’re looking for a proper ‘olde worlde’ traditional independent pub there are over 100 pubs to choose from! Why not also try a local tipple whether it be a pint of Bays Brewery (choose from award winning craft local ales including Devon Dumpling, Top Sale and Bays Gold, or the very popular Devon Rock Craft Lager), or a Plymouth Gin.
- The Drum Inn, Torquay
In the heart of Cockington Village in the heart of Torquay, is an attractive thatched building and the ultimate traditional British watering hole. This is one for the whole family, offering plenty of affordable, hearty food deals and nutritious child-sized meals for the little ones. With plenty of outside space as well.
https://www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/south-west/thedruminncockington#/
- The Thatched Tavern, Torquay
Popular with both dog-walkers and families, The Thatched Tavern is a family run pub and restaurant with a beautiful garden. In our opinion it’s one of the best Devon country pubs you could choose to visit. Perfect after a walk along Maidencombe beach which is just a short distance away. This is another one of those pubs which is hidden well away, but which still manages to thrive. This pub is a great place for Sunday lunch, or for enjoying a drink in their lovely bar or cosy book-nook.
https://thethatchedtaverndevon.co.uk/
- The Cott Inn, Dartington
Nestled away at the end of Cott Lane, since 1320 is The Cott Inn. With 700 years of history in its bricks and beams it is one of the oldest thatched inns in Britain and you start to soak up its rich atmosphere as soon as you step foot inside. The Cott Inn serves great food and drink. It’s the perfect place to go after a country walk in the South Hams – no wonder it got a spot on our list of the best places to eat in South Devon!
- The Waterman’s Arms, Bow Bridge
This pub is a firm favourite for sitting by the river and watching the world go by slowly, as it is built next to a small bridge on the river Dart. This pub is at the opposite end of a fantastic walk along the River Dart from The Steam Packet Inn. If you like to begin and end your country walks in a pub then The Steam Packet to The Waterman’s Arms is a fantastic hour and a half stroll along spectacular countryside.
- The Warren House Inn, Chagford
Deep in the heart of Dartmoor is The Warren House Inn. This pub claims that their fire has been burning since 1845! There is something charming in the idea of a fire which has been alight since the early days of Victoria’s reign. All the favourite local ales like Doom Bar, Tribute and Otter are available here and if it’s food you’re after you could try a home-made ‘Warreners Pie’ packed full of freshly caught rabbit.
- The Rugglestone Inn, near Widecombe in the Moor
The Rugglestone Inn was voted one of the best UK country pubs in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards 2018. It is a unique, unspoilt Dartmoor inn in the village of Widecombe in the Moor (well worth a wonder around the village). Originally a cottage, the grade II listed building was converted to an Inn back in 1832 and named after a local stone. Surrounded by peaceful moorland it is adjacent to a pretty stream. Its home-cooked menu of locally-sourced produce is extensive and offers a broad range for all tastes. The bar is well stocked with real ales, farm cider and a comprehensive wine list.
http://www.rugglestoneinn.co.uk/
- The Treby Arms, Sparkwell.
A traditional country pub with a modern twist! This Michelin star award winning restaurant between 2015 and 2017. There are all about fresh, local produce whether it be their famous Fish & Chips made with locally caught fresh fish served in a beer batter or the wild Venison Haunch freshly prepared in house. Please note that the menus do change depending on quality of produce and seasons, so the menus listed are to be used as a guide.
https://www.thetrebyarms.co.uk/
- Fingle Bridge Inn
This location is hard to beat! Located at the beauty spot Fingle Bridge near Drewsteignton. Fingle Bridge Inn is on the banks of the river Teign in the magnificent Teign Gorge. The pub is near the National Trust’s Castle Drogo (the youngest castle in the UK!) and on the route of one of Dartmoor’s finest walks.
http://www.finglebridgeinn.co.uk/
- The Ship Inn, Noss Mayo
This waterside pub has been completely renovated with love and affection. Strong yet simple, spacious yet cosy, it feels like a “proper pub” – unfussy, uncomplicated but pleasingly functional. It offers good, fresh, homemade food, great local beers and interesting wines, while you’re surrounded by wooden floors, old furniture, log fires, bookcases and dozens of local pictures.
- Duke of York, Iddesleigh
This 15th-century Inn overlooking Dartmoor is a traditional pub serving great food and beer. It uses locally-sourced and high-quality products and offers everyone a warm welcome with roaring log fires and very friendly staff. There is a beer garden to enjoy when the sun is shining. It has welcomed many music and TV celebrities over the years and it was here that author Michael Morpurgo got the inspiration to write War Horse, after talking to First World War veteran Wilfred Ellis in front of the fire.
https://dukeofyorkdevon.co.uk/
Back
