You’ve spent the day traversing the wild and beautiful Exmoor National Park and now, as the sun goes down behind the rolling moorland, it’s time to feast and replenish your energy stores after the day’s exciting exploits. Well, we’ve got you covered as there’s nothing like kicking off the walking boots, hopping into a refreshing shower, and heading off for a tummy-warming meal at one of Exmoor’s timeless and oh-so welcoming pubs.
Here are just a few of our favourites…
The Royal Oak, Winsford
With a thatched roof, log burners dotted around the bar and dining room, and a selection of real ales on tap, The Royal Oak is the perfect hideaway to rest the feet and feed the soul after a day hiking across the moor. Using a range of locally sourced, fresh produce and sticking to the mantra of “if we’re able to make it ourselves – we do”, the temptingly traditional menu is the perfect remedy to a walking holiday – especially when pairing Exmoor lamb with a glass of your favourite tipple!
The Bridge Inn, Dulverton
Great news for all the good pooches out there, dog-friendly The Bridge Inn welcomes all with a smile and a secret stash of gravy bones! This classic country pub is all about finding the right drink and dish to suit your needs and wants, from a crisp white with a crab cake salad, to a deep red with a ribeye. You can enjoy your adventure-fuelling meal on the terrace overlooking the river, or head indoors where a warm and welcoming atmosphere awaits.
Woods, Dulverton
With its rustic interior, there are few places more relaxing than Woods. Dine on an inspired continental menu of grilled fillet of cod and stem ginger panna cotta (with an award-winning wine list to boot) as you soak up the charming décor and homely burnt orange walls. If it’s just a pick-me-up you’re craving, perch at the bar for a glass of Chilean red or head to the enclosed courtyard where you can bask in the warm weather with your refreshing drink and well-behaved dog.
The Swan, Bampton
Where better to reflect on the day than in a multi-award-winning classic country inn that boasts English charm and an incredible gastropub menu to satisfy the tastebuds. Voted Inn of the Year by AA, The Swan has more than earned its reputation. Pop in for an aromatic Exmoor gin and tonic and chat in the intimate snug (complete with a toe-warming fire) or settle down in the dining room where you can browse the constantly changing menu full of seasonal produce. We mean, what weekend isn’t made better by a Sunday roast with all the trimmings!
Exmoor White Horse, Exford
With the River Exe winding past and the traditional 16th-century building covered in a healthy layer of Virginia creeper, idyllic is certainly the word we would choose to describe the Exmoor White Horse Inn. Inside, the charm continues as you’re met with crackling log fires, satisfying cheese boards, and over 200 single malt whiskeys to wet your whistle – what more do you need after an energetic romp on the moors!
The Hunter’s Inn, Heddon Valley
Whether you’re looking for a mid-day stop off in between bird (or wild pony) watching, The Hunter’s Inn has been welcoming travellers for years. Nestled at the bottom of Heddon Valley, there’s lots to explore in the surrounding area before heading inside for a well-deserved feast, whether it’s a classic Westcountry ploughman’s or the ultimate Hunter’s Inn steak burger.
The Rest and be Thankful Inn, Wheddon Cross
Situated within the highest village on Exmoor, The Rest and be Thankful Inn puts it all out there with its name: this is a place to rest, recuperate and be thankful. Originally a staging post for travellers, this centuries-old inn still welcomes guests with open doors, encouraging everyone to shed the worries of the day in favour of great food and good company. Whether all you can think about is crispy chicken, or you just want to melt away in their ice cream menu, there’s something for everyone in this historic inn.
The Ship Inn, Porlock Weir
Right on the South West Coast Path, The Ship Inn is ready to welcome you and your pup straight off the beaten track and into welcomed comfort and reprieve as it has done since the 13th century. A sun-soaked beer garden beckons for those who want to lounge in the fresh air with a glass in hand, while the traditional interior is ready and waiting to serve up some real, hearty pub grub from slow-cooked beef to a truly moreish risotto.
Feeling inspired? Explore our luxury cottages in Somerset or Devon.
Plan your excursion to Exmoor National Park with our guide full of stomping good walks, hair-raising activities and memorable experiences.
