We’ve put together a selection of our favourite pubs in and around Exmoor National Park, which will include some hidden gems you may not have known about. Our team love spending their spare time in the rich Devon countryside and having a great pit-stop for a well deserved pint and pub lunch is essential. Exmoor is a gorgeous National Park, the scenery around the North Devon coastline is quite extreme and ever changing, it has some jaw dropping landscapes from the tall sea cliffs to hidden beaches in the coves and nail biting coastal roads.
Blue Ball Inn, Countisbury
One of our favourites, this 13th century pub is located in the hamlet of Countisbury just outside of Lynton and Lynmouth. It is dog friendly and a favourite among local walkers/sightseers as it is nicely located in the heart of some of the most spectular walking trails in the area. It has great real ales, fine wines and traditional meals served all day, you’ve got to try the delicious deep fried brie. You can sit infront of the roaring open fire in the winter and in the summer, enjoy the fresh sea air and sun whilst admiring the beautiful Devon coast down to Lynmouth.
The Rising Sun, Lynmouth
Renowned for their fantastic locally sourced food and waterside location, this little gem is quite something. It is a 14th century dog friendly pub situated right in the mouth of the river Lyn, it is the perfect combination of modern comfort whilst still retaining the old character and charm. The Rising Sun is surrounded by spectacular walking trails, quirky village shops and outstanding natural beauty; which is probably why it is a favourite amongst visitors and locals who like to enjoy some of the best food in the area in one of the prettiest villages in Devon.
The Hunters Inn in Heddon Valley, Martinhoe
Conveniently located along the route of many spectacular walks through Exmoor, this traditional pub is a favourite stop off point for hungry and thirsty walkers. The Hunters Inn is set in the most idyllic dramatic countryside and is only a short walk from the coast along the popular Heddons Mouth trail. It is a very striking pub nestled deep in the valley with its own gardens and parking, you can bring along your four legged friend too. Sit back, relax with an ice cold pint in the sunshine whilst tucking into some red ruby beef or fresh seafish; one not to miss and it really is off the beaten track for ultimate peace and tranquility. It does get busy in the summer months, especially if you arrive around the annual beer festival but you can always escape up one of the many walking trails.
The Kings Arms, Georgeham
This traditional pub is known for its great hospitality and fresh ingredients is set in the vibrant village of Georgeham. It is a great place to stop if you love surrounding yourself amongst the locals enjoying an upbeat atmosphere with live music and entertainment. You are more than welcome to bring your dog whilst you enjoy some delicious locally sourced food and drink. Just bear in mind that it is very busy in the summer months so make sure you plan your visit and you can then sit back in the beautiful Devon countryside and watch the world go by.
Pack O Cards, Combe Martin
This beautifully historic pub is nestled on the north westerly edge of Exmoor National Park in the village of Combe Martin. It is a popular spot for locals and both visitors offering a spectacular beer garden, dog friendly atmosphere and occasional live music. It is a very historic building with accompanying small history forum open to the public who want to know more; the food is very tasty here and they offer a great choice of alcoholic beverages. It can get very busy during the summer especially during carnival week and the earl of rone but its so worth it if you fancy diving head first into village life.
The Jack Russell, Swimbridge
Famous for its connection with the Reverend John Russell, curate of St James Church in Swimbridge and breeder of the first Jack Russell Terrier; this traditional pub has a great selection of local beers and ciders whilst offering a very warm welcome and delicious food. It is the perfect pit stop when exploring the Devonshire surroundings. If you fancy an evening meal or popping in at the weekend it is advisable to try and book. If you can, visit during their annual cider festival from 27th – 28th Oct where they’ll have over 35 varieties of cider and a prosecco bar, with live music from the afternoon until the early hours.
The Royal Oak, Winsford
Built originally as a 12th century farmhouse this gorgeous thatched pub is set in a beautiful setting in the heart of Exmoor National Park, it is a lovely break for some well deserved grub and rest. Situated close to the popular Tarr Steps, there is so much to enjoy in the heart of Exmoor including hunting, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, game fishing and canoeing. If you are in the area, you have to give The Royal Oak a visit, it’s so worth it!
The Black Venus Inn, Challacombe
Located near Swincombe and Challacombe, this historic 16th century pub is bursting with Devonshire character and rustic charm with its low ceilings and wooden beams. It is situated at the start and end point of many circular dog walking paths on Exmoor, some more strenuous and others a mere gentle stroll to work up that appetite. The pub is a perfect end to a scenic walk, where the quaint beer garden awaits you, along with delicious food and drink… even muddy boots and paws are welcome.
Exmoor National Park is an ideal place to explore the great outdoors on foot, whether you are an experienced hiker or prefer a gentle walk. The park has over 1000km of footpaths and bridleways, through woodlands, on sheer coastal cliffs, by tumbling rivers and exposed heather covered moorland you’ll be sure to find something spectacular as soon as you set foot out of your door. Also, don’t forget to take part in the Exmoor Food Fest this February, a great event where many restaurants come together to offer outstanding food at affordable prices in gorgeous locations, you’ll be able to eat your way across Exmoor from £10 per meal and you can then vote for your favourite to win the Taste Exmoor Awards; for more information visit
