Fantastic food in exceptional locations – Taste Buds uncovers the best places to combine memorable dining with a relaxing night away
A confection of uniquely British influences with an idiosyncratic Alice in Wonderland theme, Glazebrook boasts eight luxurious, individually designed rooms. Glamour and opulence abound, cut through with a streak of whimsy and an attention to detail that means there’s always something to catch the eye. The restaurant is the domain of Executive Head Chef Anton Piotrowski (Michelin-starred and Winner of MasterChef: The Professionals 2012) and serves top-quality local produce sourced within a 50-mile radius of the hotel. Look no further than Glazebrook’s long list of awards for assurance that quirky and unique doesn’t come at the expense of quality.
Unobtrusive luxury in refined, relaxing surroundings is central to the Hartnoll experience. Only a stone’s throw from Exmoor National Park, outdoor pursuits are plentiful and guests can work up an appetite with a yomp on the moor. Head Chef Steve Cox oversees a constantly changing menu with a focus on simple but delicious cooking that makes the most of top-quality ingredients. Good food is accompanied by equally good drink from an easy to navigate wine list.
With a spectacular Dartmoor location, Prince Hall offers guests doorstep access to stunning scenery and abundant fresh air, combined with relaxed hospitality and the greatest of comforts. Imaginative, refined food is served in either the fine-dining restaurant or less formal bistro, with local sourcing of ingredients a priority for the kitchen team. The hotel’s kitchen garden provides almost all of the vegetables and salads used, and much of the fruit. Doggy guests are made to feel very welcome.
A hotel with history, the White Hart is a traditional posting house with roots going back to 1639. Comforts are modern, however, with understated decor making this a smart base from which to explore Dartmoor. Food is hearty and unpretentious but nonetheless refined, with local produce featuring abundantly. Known for its homemade pies and robust game dishes, the White Hart couples great food with local ales and an unfussy wine list.
Dating back to the 15th century, The Sea Trout is a traditional Devon inn combining exceptionally good food with all the warmth and welcome you’d expect from a pub. Daily specials make good use of varied local seafood and well-executed pub classics feature alongside accomplished à la carte dishes. Once you’ve explored the River Dart, meandered round nearby Totnes, then eaten well in the restaurant or bar, collapse into bed in one of the inn’s 10 stylish rooms.
With a quintessential Devon seaside location and its own private beach, Soar Mill strives to offer the best in luxury and relaxation. All rooms boast private patios from which to take in the sea views, with binoculars on hand for those lucky enough to spot a dolphin. A spa and heated saltwater pool are available should you need any further help unwinding. Diners can expect modern British cuisine that makes the most of local, seasonal ingredients. This means that seafood is, of course, integral to the menu.
With a fascinating history and oozing Edwardian charm, Orestone Manor offers guests a classic, characterful country house experience. The 12 rooms are all individually designed for maximum comfort – be sure to bag a sea view to make the most of Orestone’s location overlooking Lyme Bay. Modern European cuisine relies on quality local produce – from venison and beef to scallops and crab – and can be enjoyed in the restaurant, in the less formal conservatory or sun terrace. Classic Devon afternoon teas are fast becoming a speciality.
Enjoying expansive sea views from its clifftop location, Sandy Cove provides the perfect base from which to explore many of North Devon’s best beaches. Woolacombe Sands is just a 15-minute drive away. Dining in the Cove Restaurant is relaxed but luxurious, with accomplished cooking vying for attention with the striking views over Sandy Bay. Accommodation is contemporary, comfortable and stylish.
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Taste Buds is published by We Make Media, a family-owned Devon company. Taste Buds is produced using Devon-based writers, chefs, photographers and sales team. It is printed on environmentally friendly paper. Just like the food we write about, Taste Buds is lovingly made using the finest local ingredients!
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