Devon’s Cosiest Pubs

The Cott Inn, Dartington

The Cott Inn in Dartington is a cosy British pub and one of the oldest thatched inns in the country. The food and the ambience here is sublime. In the winter think roaring fires and cosy catch ups under the exposed beams of the pub. The pub itself is quite small so if you do come here in winter and get given an outside table, do not fear. I’ve never known a pub do such a great winter outdoor set up which is still undercover and often toastier than inside with heaters and fairy lights.

The Farmers Arms, Woolsery

The Farmers Arms is a beautiful Grade II listed pub with rooms in North Devon. This is one of the more unique Devon offerings and we love it, with its commitment to sustainability through local sourcing and craft. Everything from the menus, to the cordials and the beers are handcrafted. The building was restored with local materials and now provides a stylish and cosy atmosphere with open fires, exposed timbers, and a touch of contemporary design.

Their menu features dishes made from ingredients sourced from their own farm, such as a delicious shepherd’s pie made with local hogget, and the Forager’s Tart for dessert. Don’t miss out on their homemade crisps with your beverage!

The Hour Glass, Exeter

The Hour Glass is a cosy pub close to the city's quayside that offers open fires and an inviting atmosphere. With its warm lighting and rustic decor, it feels like stepping into a fairy tale and will be a welcome break from all the Christmas shopping. The menu features a delightful array of dishes, from traditional British classics to international flavors, all crafted with care and creativity.

Mason Arms, Branscombe

The 14th-century Masons Arms is nestled in the heart of Branscombe, one of Devon's most picturesque villages. Stepping beneath the charming thatched roof, you’ll be greeted by characterful fittings including timber frames, low beamed ceilings, whitewashed walls, and importantly, a roaring log fire. A contemporary menu pairs perfectly with award-winning beers, fine wines, and barista coffee. This pub really is a jewel in St Austell Brewery's crown!

The Pilchard Inn, Burgh Island

The Pilchard Inn is a historic pub located on Burgh Island in South Devon, serving up delicious food and drinks with stunning coastal views. Dating back to 1336, this cosy old smugglers hut has plenty of nooks and crannies (mind your head!) and roaring fires, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a pint or a meal. Be sure to check your tide times for access to the island by foot, or wait for the sea tractor!

The Warren House Inn, Postbridge

Warren House Inn is a traditional, cosy pub located in Dartmoor National Park. It's a pretty iconic landmark and was originally built to serve the busy local tin mining community. The last mine was closed in 1930 so now it serves passers by and travellers and stands out by being known as 'the lonely inn'.

The menu is locally sourced and focuses on hearty and wholesome dishes, including pies and ham and chips! The fires are lit for a cosy atmosphere so if you're looking for a respite from your walk, the Warren House Inn is a fabulous option.

The Old Exeter Inn, Ashburton

Cosy and incredibly historic! The Old Exeter Inn is the 5th oldest pub in Britain and feels like stepping back in time. This place is steeped in history and has been trading continuously since 1130! Patrons of the pub include Sir Francis Drake and the explorer Sir Walter Raleigh, who was actually arrested in this very pub on a charge of treason against the King.

These days, the pub offers numerous cosy wood panelled and candle lit rooms to enjoy a drink or some of their excellent comfort food. Pies and suet puddings are the main order of the day, inspired by the food of olde England so you can get the whole experience this winter!

The Black River Inn, Black Torrington

This cosy pub is a village hub, serving up delicious Devon Tapas cooked over a solid fuel fire! The food is absolutely delicious and the welcome equally as warm. The new owners have given the pub a lovely renovation while still keeping the cosy charm. While this pub is a bit off the beaten track, it was a finalist in The Great British Pub Awards so definitely one to add to your list!

The Church House Inn, Rattery

The Church House Inn is well known amongst South Devon locals for being super cosy with plenty of traditional English charm! This is a proper olde-worlde pub (which apparently has a resident ghost!) and serves an amazing Sunday roast so it's the perfect option to while away a winter afternoon getting cosy!

The Village Inn, Thurlestone

A local favourite of mine, is the perfect spot to while away some hours after a beach walk. The snug part of the restaurant features a gorgeous fire, surrounded by leather chesterfield sofas, perfect for getting cosy and playing a game of cards or chess (their set is rather large, you can't miss it!). The menu has something for everyone, and dogs are welcome so it's a go to!

The Chagford Inn, Chagford

This 200 year old family-run pub, nested on the edge of Dartmoor offers a frequently changing gastro menu, designed to showcase the best local produce sourced from local farms and day boat-caught fish.

With a team of passionate chefs constantly innovating delicious dishes, dining here promises a culinary adventure like no other. This really is quality dining that is incredibly local and considered. The interior is cosy with wood panelled walls, exposed beams and a friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect option to cosy up after a wintery walk.

The Ley Arms, Kenn

The Ley Arms is a charming 13th-century country pub and restaurant tucked away in the picturesque Kenn Valley near Exeter. This pub is the definition of cosy English pub with open fires, leather chesterfield sofas, fairy lights, exposed beams and flagstone floors. From festive seasonal menus to specialty events like cocktail masterclasses and live music nights, there's always something fun happening at The Ley Arms.

The Castle Inn, Lydford

The Castle Inn is without doubt one of my favourite pubs in Devon. It’s super cosy with roaring fires and a thoughtful menu which is a bit more elevated than your traditional Devonshire pub. The chef here aims to bridge the gap between pub grub and gastro food, with dishes like Devon beef and jail ale pie, torched Looe sardines on toast, and Devon venison burger. The interiors are also very considered which I love and just adds to the atmosphere and feeling of relaxation. Think low ceilings, wonky flagstone flooring and bench seating with all the cushions.

Serving a wide range of delicious wines and proper Devon ales, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a wild and windy walk on Dartmoor or a cycle along the Granite Way path. So grab a pint, sit back, and enjoy the warm and welcoming atmosphere of The Castle Inn.

The Cornish Arms, Tavistock

The Cornish Arms is a cosy pub with a roaring fire in the center of Tavistock, known for its friendly atmosphere and has a Top 50 Gastropub accolade to its name. The team there is super welcoming and the food is a tasty mix of classic dishes with a modern twist. Perfect for a respite after a wintery walk on the moors!

NoBody Inn, Doddiscombsleigh

The NoBody Inn is a charming countryside pub on the edge of Dartmoor which harks back to the 13th century. You can expect to walk in to this pub to be greeted by the smell and warmth of a roaring fire, exposed beams, low ceilings and of course a very warm welcome. The Nobody Inn bar is something to behold, with over 250 wines and 240 whiskeys to try, lots of which are offered by the glass so you can enjoy a variety.

The menu offers quality, but traditional dishes with locally sourced ingredients such as River Teign mussels or the Wild Boar and apple burger! We love a dog friendly pub and our furry friends are welcome here so why not pop in after a walk on the moors.