Thatched Pub Trail

This trail takes you through the beautiful heart of rural North Devon where tranquillity can be found along with dark skies, starry nights and views over Dartmoor. These are our top picks for cosy thatched pubs in this olde worlde part of the region. Perfect in autumn when the nights are closing in and the fires are lit.

The New Inn in Roborough is known for its extensive gin list and local ales and ciders. Try Wicked Wolf small batch handcrafted gin produced on Exmoor and Thirst of Many ale from GT Ales, an award winning craft brewery based near Braunton.

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The beautifully restored 17th Century Rams Head coaching inn in Dolton is good for lunch or dinner. Much of the food comes from suppliers right on their doorstep.

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After stopping in Dolton head down to Halsdon Nature Reserve for a beautiful walk along the banks of the River Torridge, looking out for Tarka the Otter as you go!

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Iddesleigh is a picturesque village used in many period dramas including War Horse, where the story is actually based (Michael Morpurgo lives close by). For lunch visit The Duke of York. Dating back to the 15th Century, the pub offers traditional fair including a delicious steak and kidney pudding. Don’t forget to sample Sam’s Cider produced in nearby Winkleigh.

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In Hatherleigh (Devon’s smallest town) try the perfectly formed Tally Ho! where you can sample their own beer brewed on the premises.

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Head northwards and try a pint of Moonchild beer at The Bull and Dragon in Meeth. The beer is brewed just down the road in Petrockstow

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For relaxed dining try the bijou Malt Scoop in Merton. It’s compact so fills up fast. Make sure you book for Sunday lunch in peak season.