Best Pubs & Historic Inns in Devon: A Complete Guide
A comprehensive guide to Devon’s finest country pubs, historic coaching inns, award-winning gastropubs, beachfront taverns, and dog-friendly retreats across Exe Valley, Dartmoor, North Devon, and South Hams.
💡 Pub vs. Inn: What’s the Historical & Legal Difference?
🍺 The Public House (“Pub”)
A pub (short for public house) historically evolved from community homes opening their doors to serve local ales, ciders, and casual comfort food. Pubs focus primarily on atmosphere, cask ale, and local social gathering.
🏨 The Coaching Inn
An inn is a historic establishment legally required to offer food, drink, and overnight accommodation to travelers. If a venue is named an “Inn”, it almost always features guest rooms alongside its bar and restaurant.
🏆 Top Rural & Country Pubs in Mid Devon & Exe Valley
The Cadeleigh Arms (Exe Valley)
Perched high above the Exe Valley, this renowned venue combines sweeping valley views with seasonal local dining and local ciders. Consistently voted among the UK’s top dog-friendly dining destinations.
- Location: Cadeleigh, Exe Valley
- Highlights: Fine local ales, seasonal game, dedicated dog treats at the bar
Culm Valley Inn (Cullompton)
A classic whitewashed country pub situated by a stone bridge over the River Culm. Famous for cozy open fireplaces, local ciders, and a vibrant riverside beer garden in summer.
- Location: Cullompton, East Mid Devon
- Highlights: Riverside seating, extensive wine list, hearty local dishes
The Ring of Bells (Crediton)
A treasured village pub near Crediton celebrated for its creative, ever-changing seasonal menus, local craft beers, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Location: Cheriton Fitzpaine / Crediton
- Highlights: Local farm produce, real ales, thatched garden patio
The Five Bells Community Pub (Cullompton)
A beautifully restored 16th-century thatched community pub blending British fine dining with rural charm. Renowned statewide for its exceptional Sunday roasts.
- Location: Clyst Hydon / Cullompton
- Highlights: Award-winning Sunday roasts, local game, fine wines
🐕 Dog-Friendly & Coastal Pub Highlights Across Devon
The Globe Inn (Grand Western Canal)
A favorite stop for walkers exploring the Grand Western Canal towpath. Features a dedicated “Wall of Woof” photo gallery, dog treats at the bar, and hearty pub meals.
The Thatch (Croyde Bay)
Located seconds from Croyde’s famous surf beach, this lively thatched pub is iconic for post-surf pints, stone-baked pizzas, and energetic weekend music.
The Boathouse (Instow)
Offers panoramic views across the Torridge Estuary toward Appledore. Famous for fresh local crab, seafood platters, and sunset drinks on the top deck.
The Masons Arms (South Molton)
A world-class dining destination housed in a 13th-century thatched building, delivering exquisite local seafood and game while welcoming well-behaved dogs.
📍 Local Tips for Visiting Devon Country Pubs
• Book Ahead: Popular gastropubs and Sunday roasts fill up weeks in advance, especially during peak holiday periods.
• Single Track Lanes: Many rural pubs sit at the end of scenic single-track lanes—drive cautiously and use passing places.
• Opening Hours: Rural kitchens often close between lunch (2:30 PM) and dinner (6:00 PM)—always double-check service times before setting off.