The Dartmoor Inn at Lydford

There are countless country inns where you can rock up at the bar in your wellies following a moorland yomp. But for those seeking something smarter than post-hike pub grub, The Dartmoor Inn strikes the balance between cosy bar and smart restaurant and has made a name for itself among savvy foodies looking for contemporary Dartmoor dining.

Since taking over the pub in 2019, chef Jay Barker-Jones and wife Tess (front of house) have bagged a Michelin Guide listing and racked up various awards, including Best Pub at both the Trencherman’s Awards 2024 and the Food Drink Devon Awards 2023.

In the kitchen, Jay focuses on crafting refined fare, which is served in a thoroughly unstuffy setting. His ever-developing menus reflect what’s in season and produced locally. For a taste of Dartmoor, opt for starters like tender wood pigeon accompanied by jerusalem artichoke, mushrooms and blackberries, followed by superstar mains like locally shot red venison loin with haunch ragout, salt-baked celeriac, red cabbage, pickled walnut, charred Tenderstem and red wine.

The culinary offering also includes a cracking seafood selection: dishes such as sea bass with sauté potatoes, garlic tiger prawns, samphire, peppers, chorizo and romesco are manna for fish fans.

Trencherman’s tip

The drinks experience is as carefully crafted as the food. The expansive wine list is curated by nearby Tavistock’s Sovereign Wines and includes a global array of wineries. There’s also an excellent selection of cocktails and non-alcoholic options.