The Arundell Arms

Straddling the Devon-Cornwall border in the sleepy village of Lifton, The Arundell Arms is a traditional country inn which, for generations, has provided hospitality in the countryside.

More than just a pub and restaurant with rooms, The Arundell Arms also claims 22 miles of privately managed riverbank, a lake and one of the best fly-fishing schools in the country. Anglers return year after year to wade into its waters and enjoy the therapy that comes from a day on the river.

However, arriving laden with rods and reels is not a prerequisite for a visit. Those more drawn to land-based pursuits will find themselves surrounded by scenery that’s crying out for exploration.

At the end of a day’s country pursuits, roaring fires, flagstone floors and a cosy library (or the English country garden in summer) await those congregating for pre-dinner drinks.

Dinner in the chandeliered dining room is delightful thanks to the trad decor and chef Phillip Old’s seasonal menus featuring local and wild ingredients. Dishes include gin-smoked trout with watermelon, feta and zesty lime salad, and pan-fried line-caught local fish of the day with fennel and a garlic and lemon sauce vierge.

While freshly caught trout often appears, there’s no farmed salmon on the menu – the establishment was one of the first supporters of the Off The Table campaign.

Trencherman’s tip:

The good food, clutch of quintessentially English guest rooms and fleet of Tesla chargers make The Arundell Arms an oasis for travellers journeying through the South West.