You’ll undoubtedly feel the vibe the moment you step into one of Devon’s old pubs. Most have low beams that hang overhead, floors that tilt ever so slightly, and the air has an old-world smell with the hint of the centuries before it. Some pubs are shrouded in folklore, while others simply make good food - both are worth your time. Without further ado, here’re our top picks of the cosiest and most intriguing pubs of Devon:

The Royal Oak, Meavy

Set on the edge of Dartmoor, The Royal Oak feels as though it grew out of the landscape itself. Parts of the building date back to the 15th century, and the interior still holds onto that sense of age without slipping into theatre.

Local ales rotate frequently, often sourced from nearby breweries, and the food provides traditional comfort without anything too extravagant or over-complicated. A slow-cooked stew or a well-built ploughman’s lunch tends to suit the setting better than anything overly refined.

There’s nothing staged about The Royal Oak. Walkers arrive muddy for a pint and snacks, and leave restored, and the locals sit in familiar corners for hours at a time. If you’ve got the time, pay a visit to the 900+ year-old Royal Oak in the village. It’s said to be one of the trees that King Charles hid in when fleeing from Cromwell’s men in the 16th Century.

The Nobody Inn, Doddiscombsleigh

The name of The Nobody Inn alone invites curiosity, and the story behind it only makes it more appealing. The pub dates back several hundred years and has a reputation for being one of Devon’s most atmospheric pubs.

The atmosphere is set inside with candlelight and dark wood, with alcoves that have an almost secretive appeal. Some visitors come for the ghost stories, which the staff recount with a straight face and a hint of amusement.

The food is also a drawcard. Seasonal menus often feature game, rich sauces, and dishes that reflect the surrounding countryside. Meals can be paired with a selection of carefully selected ales or other drinks that form part of their much-loved menu.

The Ship Inn, Branscombe

The Ship Inn is in one of Devon’s most picturesque villages, right by the sea. Its thatched roof and whitewashed walls give it a storybook look, though the atmosphere inside is relaxed rather than precious.

Seafood takes centre stage at The Ship Inn, often landed just a short distance away. Fresh crab, mussels, and fish dishes come prepared in ways that genuinely bring out the flavours and make for hearty meals.

The pub also has a strong ale selection, with regional brews that reflect Devon’s growing reputation in the craft scene. The balance between coastal freshness and traditional pub warmth makes this one easy to linger in.

The Rugglestone Inn, Widecombe-in-the-Moor

Tucked into Dartmoor again, The Rugglestone Inn feels like a well-kept secret. The setting seems to shift beautifully with the seasons, with its stone walls, large fireplace, and garden that opens onto the moor.

The menu features hearty classics, with generous portions that are big on flavour rather than presentation. A good pie and a pint here can feel like a reward rather than just a meal.

The pub’s history stretches back hundreds of years, and while it does not offer a lot of historical storytelling, the sense of time passing is unmistakable.

The Drewe Arms, Drewsteignton

If you’re looking for a pub that is run by the community for the community, The Drewe Arms is the place to go. It’s run as a community-owned pub and blends history and shared purpose, especially when the locals banded together in 2025 to save the pub.

The building itself dates back to the 17th century, with a layout that encourages conversation rather than separation. There is no rush to move people along. Conversations stretch, and the atmosphere reflects that.

Local ales feature heavily, and the food keeps things simple, seasonal, and well-executed. It feels like a place that belongs to the people who use it, which gives it a kind of hard-to-miss authenticity.

The Anchor Inn, Cockwood

Sitting right on the estuary, The Anchor Inn offers a charming scene. Boats drift past, the tide laps constantly, and the pub becomes part of the entire setting.

The food is very seafood-focused, though the menu balances it with traditional pub staples. A plate of fish and chips here, paired with a crisp local ale, tends to feel exactly right.

Inside, the décor reflects its maritime setting without becoming overly themed.

Tips for Pub Hopping in Devon

You won’t find Devon’s best pubs all sitting on the main road, waiting to be discovered. Many of them are hidden down winding country lanes, perched on the edge of moorland, or quietly holding their ground in villages you wouldn’t pass through unless you meant to.

That’s part of the charm, but it does mean you’ll need to plan, especially if you’re hoping to do a bit of pub hopping. It’s a good idea to map out a pub trail before you set off, as places may seem close, but may require some travel.

If you’re planning to try a few local ales, having a safe way to get back matters. In more rural parts of Devon, rideshares can be limited, especially later in the evening, so it’s worth checking availability ahead of time or arranging a local taxi. Some of the best nights happen when you’re not worrying about how you’re getting home.

Cell signals can dip in remote areas, but having mobile data ready makes it much easier to check directions, look up opening hours, or adjust plans on the fly. Investing in an unlimited eSIM data plan is a good idea if you want to make sure you stay connected.

A few other things that make the experience smoother:

  • Check seasonal opening times before you go, as smaller pubs may close earlier outside peak months
  • Carry a bit of cash, as some traditional spots still prefer it
  • Book ahead for food if you’re visiting a well-known historic inn
  • Take your time between stops to really enjoy the pub and its surroundings

A County Best Experienced One Pint at a Time

Devon’s historic pubs seem to understand what people want from a good pub and are filled with character. You’ll find yourself thoroughly enjoying a well-poured pint, satisfying meals, and spaces that allow you to settle and relax with no pressure to hurry along.