The Rock Inn

Sheltering below the Haytor Rocks, this beamed and flagstoned 18th-century inn is an oasis of calm and comfort on wild and windy Dartmoor. The old coaching inn occupies a stunning location just inside Dartmoor National Park, with wonderful surrounding walks. The nine upgraded and comfortable en suite bedrooms, all named after Grand National winners, make this family-run inn a peaceful base for exploring Dartmoor and south Devon's superb coastline. The old stables recall the pub's strategic position on the road between Widecombe-in-the-Moor and Newton Abbot. The characterful, traditional interior has sturdy old furnishings, plenty of antique tables, settles, prints and paintings, a grandfather clock, and various pieces of china over the two fireplaces, where logs crackle constantly on winter days and make a welcome respite from Dartmoor's wilderness. Both the classic main bar and the attractive adjoining rooms are popular settings in which to appreciate some solid modern British cooking, using top-notch local produce in attractively presented dishes. After a day walking on the moor, healthy appetites can be satisfied with seared scallops served with celeriac and vanilla purée and crispy Parma ham; and rump of Devon lamb on a bed of wilted spinach with a rosemary fondant potato and parsnip purée. Leave room for a caramelised lemon tart with ginger ice cream, or vanilla pannacotta served with shortbread and plum compôte. Simpler, more traditional lunch dishes include beef stew, seafood platter and chicken Caesar salad - best enjoyed alfresco in the sheltered courtyard or in the peaceful garden across the lane. West Country cheese is a particular feature, alongside wine from the Sharpham Vineyard in Totnes and local ales, including Dartmoor Jail Ale or IPA.