Scenic Strolls & Tasty Stops
Scenic Strolls & Tasty Stops: 5 Pub Walks in Mid Devon
There’s nothing more quintessentially British than a countryside walk followed by a hearty meal at a welcoming pub or café. Whether it’s a crisp morning ramble or a sunny springtime stroll, pairing fresh air and stunning views with great food is a tradition worth embracing. Mid Devon is the perfect place to do just that! Here are five fantastic walking routes, each with a well-deserved treat waiting for you at the end.
The Culm Valley Inn
1. Culm Valley Inn & Culmstock Beacon Walk
Enjoy a rewarding walk up to Culmstock Beacon, offering breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside. After your trek, relax at the Culm Valley Inn, known for its cosy atmosphere and hearty meals.
Walk Highlights: Roughly 6.5km with a climb. The track can get muddy so sturdy walking boots are recommended! The walk is challenging but the views from the beacon are stunning so worth the effort (especially when you know there’s the reward of a refreshing drink when you venture back down!)
What to Expect at the Culm Valley Inn: A charming pub right by the River Culm, the Culm Valley Inn has got bags of character and even an inviting log fire. Great pub food menu and a wide choice of drinks on offer. The pub is dog friendly too so you can take your pooch with you on your adventure.
2. Bickleigh Mill & Exe Valley Way
Bickleigh Bridge
Follow a scenic section of the Exe Valley Way, winding alongside the river and through picturesque countryside. Finish your journey with a visit to Bickleigh Mill, a charming café and restaurant offering local produce and delicious treats.
Walk Highlights: Around 6.5km along the river valley across picturesque country fields and through scenic woodland. This one can get muddy in wet weather so make sure you pull on your boots or wellies!
What to Expect at Bickleigh Mill: This old mill building sits in a lovely location by the river Exe. Enjoy your meal in a the friendly atmosphere of the bistro restaurant our outside in the waterside gardens, from light lunches to hearty meals, or treat yourself to a sumptuous Afternoon Tea!
3. The London Inn & Two Moors Way
Take on a stretch of the famous Two Moors Way, known for its varied landscapes and stunning vistas. Afterwards, enjoy a well-earned meal at The London Inn, a welcoming pub in Morchard Bishop with a fantastic selection of food and drink.
Walk Highlights: The full Two Moors Way is a 102 mile trek crossing two national parks and venturing through the stunning, varied landscapes of Devon. Don’t worry, we’re not expecting you to go that far just for a pint! You can break the walk down into sections, including an 8 mile stretch that runs from Morchard Bishop to Witheridge. Alternatively, you can opt for a shorter circular walk with views across Dartmoor in the beautiful countryside surrounding the village before returning to the pub.
What to Expect at The London Inn: A 16th Century inn right in the heart of the village of Morchard Bishop, serving home-cooked delicious meals with a lovely community atmosphere.
4. The Lost Kitchen & Chettiscombe & Knightshayes Walk
The Lost Kitchen
Explore the beautiful countryside around Chettiscombe and the National Trust’s Knightshayes estate before heading to The Lost Kitchen, a delightful eatery renowned for its seasonal and locally sourced dishes.
Walk Highlights: Explore the countryside surrounding Knightshayes Court, through the estate woodland and the hamlet of Chettiscombe, enjoying views across the estate.
What to Expect at The Lost Kitchen: Set in the hamlet of Chettiscombe amongst the rolling Mid Devon hills, The Lost Kitchen has a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, with beautiful views and a terrace garden. Enjoy their excellent wood-fired pizzas and seasonally inspired menu.
5. Bridge House & Bampton Walk
View over Bampton
Discover the charming town of Bampton and its scenic surrounding countryside before rounding off your walk with a visit to The Bridge, offering an excellent menu with fresh, locally inspired dishes.
Walk Highlights: A 7km circular stroll through picturesque countryside with lovely views of the Exe Valley. You’ll travel along footpaths, across fields, through woodland and past traditional Devon farms on this moderate route, with an optional detour to explore the motte and bailey castle mound, which gives excellent views of Bampton.
What to Expect at Bridge House: A warm and friendly welcome awaits at Bridge House, alongside a lovely menu of ‘proper good food’ using seasonal ingredients. Sit by the log burner in colder months for a cosy atmosphere, or bask in the pretty walled garden in warmer weather.
Plan Your Visit
Each of these walks and eateries provides the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and culinary delight. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, there’s a route to suit everyone. Be sure to check opening times and book ahead where necessary to make the most of your day out!
