Devon’s rolling moorland and dramatic coastline invite all kinds of energetic exploration, from hiking to surfing and beach-combing. It’s the homeland of Walter Raleigh, Francis Drake and Walter Scott: all men who knew not to adventure on an empty stomach. Often isolated or undiscovered, the best places to eat are usually missed by the crowds, and what’s more they always come with a killer view. Once a culinary backwater, Devon now flourishes with delicious offerings. Here are five of our favourites.
The Beach House at South Milton Sands
Offering up the bottom line in freshness, this little cabin is humble but packs a wallop. With a location on the beach, you have the option of either an a la cartè dining experience with seafood classics like Moules Mariniere and Cracked Crab, at the daily rates. Or opt for their hole-in-the-wall takeaway with classic fish’n’chips, so you can make the beach your dining table!
Image Credit: the Beach House via Facebook
The Beach House is located at South Milton, Kingsbridge, Devon, TQ7 3JY.
Sharpham Wineries
Tired of sand between your toes? Take a break from the beach. Nestled amongst an ox-bow in the Dart river valley, Sharpham Cheese and Wine offers the finest in local produce direct to the table. Windows allow you a view of the cheese-making process, which you can taste in delights such as the Roscoff Onion and Sharpham Elmhirst Tarte Tatin (£13). Take a picturesque stroll through the vines before sampling their offerings in a wine tasting, or even take a tour of the estate (from 13.50 for a bottle of white).
Image Credit: Sharpham Vineyard via Twitter
Sharpham Wineries is located at Sharpham Estate, Totnes, South Devon, TQ9 7UT
The Oyster Shack
This spot redefines hidden, until you are right on-top of it, then you can’t miss the wacky décor. It’s Moules by the bucket-load. With a 3-course set menu from £18, there is really no excuse. Their signature 28-year-old Rock Oysters (6 for £15) hold centre stage while exciting items like Wild Black Bream (£21) keep customers coming back for more.
Image Credit: The Osyter Shack via Facebook
The Oyster Shack is located at Mulburn Orchard Farm, Stakes Hill, Bigbury, Devon, TQ7 4BE.
The Pig at Combe
Although recently bought by a larger hotel group, this spot retains an air of old England, with all the functions of an old English manor house, from kitchen garden to beautiful antique iron ranges. Book the private room for a large group and dine amongst the splendour of the original kitchen. In the main dining room you can glimpse quintessential England through Georgian windows, and be sure to try the Line Caught Pollock Fillet, Isle of Scilly Langoustine, Broad Beans & Shellfish Sauce (£20) as you do. Take high tea on the croquet lawn afterwards for the full experience.
Image Credit: The Pig at Combe
The Pig is located at Gittisham, Honiton, Devon, EX14 3AD
Lympstone Manor
If you are looking for gutsy English luxury, then look no further. A year ago, this space might have been occupied by Michael Caine’s predecessor site at Gidleigh Park (whose two Michelin-starred food is set amongst some of the prettiest gardens and moorland). Disguised as a hotel, though more of a restaurant with rooms, Caine’s latest endeavour offers unrivalled views of the sea and Dawlish from its cliff-top setting; above the estuary of the river Exe. Enjoy Michelin-starred chef, Michael Caine’s specialities such as Cornish Duckling and Mille-Fuille of Tuna. Expect to pay at £125 per person for the privilege but know that the food here is some of the best in the country.
Image Credit: Lympstone Manor via Facebook
Lympstone Manor is located at Courtlands Lane, Exmouth, EX8 3NZ.