Best Pubs in Devon
Ancient Moors
Whether you have spent the day exploring hidden coves and rockpools or trekking the high heath, the perfect pint is never far away. Devon pubs aren’t about pretension; they are about roaring fires, local ales, and food that actually fills you up. Here are the best spots to warm up, dry off, and settle in.
The Cary Arms (Babbacombe)
They call this the “Inn on the Beach” for a reason. You sit right on the harbour wall, watching the seals play in the bay while you eat a crab sandwich. The walk down is steep, but the views are worth every step. It feels more like the Mediterranean than South Devon.
The Warren House Inn (Dartmoor)
This is the highest pub in Southern England, and it feels like it. It sits alone on the high moor, surrounded by nothing but sheep and fog. The fire has been burning since 1845—literally, it never goes out. It is the perfect spot for a pint and a pasty after a wet walk.
The Coast (Salt Air & Seafood)
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The Pilchard Inn (Burgh Island): Cut off by the tide twice a day; drink a pint where smugglers and pirates used to hide.
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The Ship Inn (Noss Mayo): The ultimate waterside pub; kids crab off the wall while you watch the yachts navigate the mud.
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The Pigs Nose (East Prawle): Quirky, historic, and right on the coastal path; famous for its knitting club and weird memorabilia.
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The Red Lion (Clovelly): Sits right on the harbour wall of a steep, private village; it is traffic-free and totally silent at night.
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The Beaver Inn (Appledore): Watch the fishing boats come in from the estuary; great seafood and a proper local atmosphere.
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The Cary Arms (Babbacombe): A steep walk down, but you sit right on the pier; it feels more like Italy than Devon.
The Moors & Country (Fires & Real Ale)
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The Warren House Inn (Dartmoor): The highest pub in Southern England; the peat fire has been burning since 1845 and never goes out.
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The Rugglestone Inn (Widecombe): Tiny, stone-built, and covered in ivy; the garden has a stream running right through it.
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The Nobody Inn (Doddiscombsleigh): Hard to find but worth the map reading; holds over 250 whiskies and serves incredible food.
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The Poltimore Arms (Exmoor): Eccentric, wild, and totally off-grid; run by a local legend and loved by everyone from farmers to royalty.
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The Bridge Inn (Topsham): A time capsule near Exeter; you don’t sit at a bar, you sit in a hallway or a malthouse.
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The Double Locks (Exeter): Accessible only by foot, bike, or boat along the canal; huge beer garden and famous Sunday roasts.
The below background image is
Tiverton, Weatherspoon Beer Garden.
Next to the River Exe