Places to Eat

Fine dining on Dartmoor

Gidleigh Park,Chagford (10 miles from the cottage)

Voted UK’s number 1 restaurant by the Sunday Times in 2014.  Michael Caines, the chef, has 2 michelin stars and the restaurant has an extensive wine list – 41 pages!  Although children’s portions are available, children under 8 years of age are not allowed.  It really is a gourmet experience but reservations are mandatory and do check out prices before you book.  They also do an incredible afternoon tea if something a little lighter takes your fancy.

Bovey Castle, North Bovey (7 miles from the cottage)

In addition to the fine dining restaurant, Bovey Castle offers a Bistro which provides light lunches and family friendly meals.  There are also 3 choices of afternoon tea, including a ‘champagne afternoon tea’ for that special occasion.

Dartmoor Restaurants

The White Hart, Moretonhampstead (4 miles from the cottage)

A traditional old Posting house in the centre of Moretonhampstead which serves food in both its restaurant and bar.

Three Crowns Hotel, Chagford (7 miles from the cottage)

13th Century Manor House with granite façade just off Chagford’s small town square.  The main dining area is in the glazed courtyard with a modern construction combining steel and oak beams.

Spice Bazaar, Bovey Tracey (4 miles from the cottage)

Contemporary style restaurant offering fine Indian cuisine.

Great Dartmoor Pubs & Bistro’s

The Cleave, on the doorstep, literally!

The “local” that consistently serves very good food and fine ales with a warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere.  Very popular with locals and visitors alike.  Always advisable to book a table.  Be warned, once tried you may not venture elsewhere.  NB The Cleave is closed on Sunday evenings from 7pm.

The Union Inn, Moretonhampstead (4 miles from the cottage)

The Union Inn is the oldest tavern in Moretonhampstead dating back several centuries.  It offers great value home cooked food with a warm welcome.  This is a traditional pub that is fully supported by locals who welcome all.  It’s a great place to have a relaxed dinner whilst listening to Dartmoor lingo.  It also offers one of best Sunday Roasts around.

The Horse, Moretonhampstead (4 miles from the cottage)

Also in Moretonhampstead, The Horse Pub and Restaurant is a unique mix of rustic charm, with leather sofas and a roaring fire, and a pretty light-flooded courtyard restaurant and barn dining room.  The food is authentic, delicious and being able to see into the open kitchen gives a bit of theatre to the occasion.  Certainly one to try.

Ring of Bells Inn, North Bovey (6 miles from the cottage)

Like the Cleave, a pub dating back to 15th century with a series of cosy rooms heated by open fires.  In the evenings candle light adds to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.  Offers good westcountry real ales, an eclectic wine list and an excellent daily-changing menu.

The Rugglestone, Widecombe in the moor (9 miles from the cottage)

Unique, unspoilt Dartmoor Inn serving traditional food.  Worth visiting for a drink at least.Originally a cottage the grade II listed building was converted to an inn back in 1832 and named after a local logan stone.  There is a cosy bar, wood burner and open fire in winter and a large sheltered garden with picnic tables to enjoy the splendid views in summer.

The Linny Inn, Coffinswell (11 miles from the cottage)

A very popular pub, well known for consistently offering good food with friendly service.  Very popular with locals so booking is advisable.

Olive, Newton Abbot (10 miles from the cottage)

If you fancy something a little different then Olive, in Newton Abbot, offers excellent tapas.

Tea Rooms & Cafes

Primrose Tea Rooms, Lustleigh (on the doorstep, literally!)

A very popular tea room in the heart of the village which features in many walking books.  Although renowned for Cream Teas, their sandwiches and salads take some beating.  The country cottage garden is simply perfect for enjoying lunch or afternoon tea.

Tea at Taylors, Ashburton (12 miles from the cottage)

An elegant tea room where everything is served on dainty china.  As well as ranking highly on Trip Advisor, it’s also one of our favourites – think Miss Marple!  A great selection of home made cakes, sandwiches and an extensive range of speciality teas and coffees.  Well worth popping in for a brew if visiting Ashburton.

Patisserie Valerie, Exeter (20 miles from the cottage)

Although part of a small chain it really is the place to visit whilst in Exeter for cake lovers.  An amazing selection of fancy cakes – its almost impossible to choose!

 Maisie’s Cafe, Totnes (20 miles from the cottage)

Tucked away in a quiet side street this sweet little café will not disappoint.  As well as offering beautiful home made cakes and cream teas, you can also get a full English breakfast or an excellent hot meal – a hidden gem. Maisie’s Café is highly recommended on TripAdvisor ranking 4th out of 73 places to eat in Totnes.

Alternatively, why not take a picnic and lunch out on Dartmoor.

Now explore local Dartmoor walks to build your appetite!