The Masons Arms

This 13th-century thatched village inn oozes character and charm, and has been welcoming people for generations. The beamed bar has a very low doorway, with steps towards the restaurant in its more modern rear extension with stunning views of the Exmoor countryside. Hand-painted murals adorn the apex ceiling here, and it offers a complete contrast to the bar areas of the original inn. Mark Dodson's cooking has fine pedigree (for many years he was head chef at The Waterside Inn in Bray - see entry), his style here oozes maturity and confidence in refreshingly uncluttered, clean-cut dishes that use top-notch ingredients. And his modern take on British and French classics has justifiably been creating a real stir; take a fillet of halibut served with a potato crust and cider sauce, or perhaps Devon beef fillet and rich oxtail with parsnip purée and a red wine jus. Finish with a stunning iced Amaretto parfait teamed with vanilla plums and pistachio biscuit. It's deservedly busy so book well in advance, especially for weekends.

Signed from A361, turn right once in Knowstone
Nearest station: Tiverton Parkway

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