For people who want to venture further than Bristol for a walk through the stunning hues of autumn and a cosy pub visit, Dartmoor in Devon offers an abundance of choices.
At the pinnacle of this famous national park lies the Bearslake Inn, exuding a charming gastropub aura that complements its cottage-like ambience. Originally a 13th-century farm, the Bearslake Inn later transitioned into cottages before it became the go-to spot for hungry ramblers seeking a cosy place to enjoy a meal.
Set just off the A386, a stone’s throw from Sourton village, this hidden gem beckons visitors with its unique charm. General manager Luke Fearon, boasting an impressive hospitality resume that covers nearly two decades, couldn’t decline the opportunity to take the reins at this establishment.
READ MORE: Bristol pubs with cosy fires that are a must visit this winter
He said: “It was such a stunning venue, I couldn’t help but stay.” Luke depicts an enchanting scene, reminiscent of a fable, with Dartmoor’s expansive moors providing a dramatic canvas and a stream that meanders through the pub’s garden. He even likens the setting to the picturesque homes featured in Omaze competitions, reports Devon Live.
Luke said: “It’s a thatched roadside inn, nestled against the backdrop of Dartmoor so we’ve got moors and tors in the background. We’ve got a garden out the back with its own stream running through it. If you’ve ever seen one of those Omaze houses in Devon, it’s exactly like one of those. It’s beautifully nestled in all the flora and fauna of Dartmoor.
“It’s a 13th century inn and used to be a farm in its first life. Then it was turned into cottages so inside you get all of that character. We’ve got three big fireplaces, low beams, it’s very much a ‘mind your head’ kind of place.
“We’ve also got a fantastic bar area, flagstone floor. Everything that you might expect from a cosy Devon inn.”
The pub, under the stewardship of Julian Tarrant-Boyce and Lisa Jenkins since 2018, has seen the couple immersed in its daily workings. Luke added: “There’s 15 of us in total and the owners are very much hands-on. Julian still pops up at the bar and does all of the line cleaning. Lisa runs all of the accounts and the day-to-day things.
“They’ve been trying to preserve it. As you can imagine, there’s always going to be maintenance needed at a property like this. It’s Grade II listed so other than decoration, there’s not much that’s been changed.”
Perched along the Granite Way cycle route, the pub is a magnet for walkers and cyclists. Luke acknowledges an uptick in visitors during summer but he notes that the establishment provides a warm haven for winter wanderers as well.
Luke said: “We see a lot of walkers and cyclists in the summer but less in the winter, unless they’re really brave. With our log fires and other bits and pieces, we are such a cosy place. We’re super dog friendly as well.”
The manager highlighted the pub’s commitment to local sourcing, especially when it comes to their beverages, with a particular emphasis on Devon ales. The food menu boasts traditional favourites like fish and chips, burgers, and steak, alongside some more indulgent offerings.
Luke added: “We only use Devon ales. We work really hard to make sure our supply and produce is local. We run our lunch and dinner menu between Wednesday and Sunday at present because we’re into our winter hours.
“The menu is in line with top quality gastropub food. We’ve got a selection of five or six starters and we’ve got some snacks. You’ll find classics like fish and chips, our take on a burger, a Chateaubriand Dartmoor raised beef for two.
“Desserts are as you’d imagine, we’ve got sticky toffee pudding which outsells everything else, a fantastic cheese board, a chocolate dessert and a tart of the day.”
Currently, the establishment observes its winter schedule until March 31, opening from 12pm to 3pm and 5pm to 10pm from Wednesday to Saturday, and 12pm to 10pm on Sundays.