Let’s be honest: Devon is the ultimate playground for us motorhome owners. It’s a county of two coastlines, wild ponies, and cream teas that are worth every calorie. But if you’ve ever tried to navigate a 7-meter van down a single-track lane near the coast, you know the struggle is real. And don’t get me started on the “Height Barrier of Doom” at most beach car parks.
That’s where the magic of the “Pub Stopover” comes in. Imagine pulling up to a flat, hard-standing spot, knowing you’re welcome. No driving in circles, no angry wardens—just a warm greeting, a roaring fire, and a pint of local cider waiting for you. It turns a stressful parking hunt into the highlight of your trip. These hidden gems offer more than just a place to sleep; they offer a slice of local life, incredible food, and safe harbour for your pride and joy.
Here are 10 of our absolute favourites in Devon that you need to visit.
The Fox & Hounds Hotel & Restaurant
The Vibe
This isn’t just a pub; it’s a sanctuary for foodies and weary travellers alike. The Fox & Hounds strikes that perfect balance between a traditional, family-run hotel and a relaxed local boozer. The atmosphere is undeniably warm and homely—think “Sunday afternoon with the family” vibes. They take their food seriously here, with a menu that champions classic British cookery using Devon-reared beef and seasonal produce. Whether you’re parking up for a crisp pint of craft beer or indulging in one of their signature cocktails, the gravel parking is solid, and the welcome is genuine.
The Adventure
You are perfectly positioned for a nature fix without needing to drive for hours. The deep and dramatic Lydford Gorge is just a few miles away, offering spectacular waterfalls and woodland trails. For a simpler activity right from your door, take the 20-minute riverside stroll that leads you into the local village—it’s perfect for working up an appetite before dinner.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/the-fox-hounds-hotel-restaurant/
The Castle Inn Lydford
The Vibe
Stepping into The Castle Inn is like walking onto the set of a period drama, but with better beer. This 16th-century gem oozes character, featuring crooked exposed beams, low ceilings, and open fires that crackle away on chilly evenings. It feels historic yet fresh, thanks to some lovely gastro-pub dishes that elevate the standard pub grub. The large, beautiful gardens are a massive bonus in the summer—perfect for letting the dog stretch its legs while you sip a cold drink. It’s cosy, it’s muddy-boot friendly, and it feels like a proper Devon hideaway.
The Adventure
History buffs, this is your spot. You are literally a stone’s throw from Lydford Castle, a 13th-century fortress that you can explore on foot directly from the pub car park. If you prefer greenery to granite, the Parish Church of St Petroc is a charming five-minute walk away, offering a peaceful moment of reflection before you head back for a roast.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/the-castle-inn-lydford/
The Crossway Inn Okehampton
The Vibe
If you love a pub with a story, The Crossway Inn is a 16th-century coaching inn that has kept its soul intact. The new owners have breathed fresh life into the place while preserving the stunning oak beams and the massive inglenook fireplace—complete with a wood burner that is absolute heaven after a wet drive. It’s famous locally for its Sunday carvery, so expect hearty portions and plates piled high with roasties. The vibe here is unpretentious and friendly; it’s the kind of place where locals chat to visitors at the bar over a rotating selection of guest ales.
The Adventure
Cyclists, bring your bikes! You are just a couple of miles from The Granite Way, a spectacular traffic-free cycle route that offers some of the best views in the county without the terrifying traffic. If you’d rather stay on two feet, a wander up to the medieval ruins of Okehampton Castle offers panoramic views over the moorland that will take your breath away.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/the-crossway-inn-oakhampton/
Betty Cottles Inn
The Vibe
Betty Cottles feels like a big, warm hug on the edge of the wilderness. It’s a family-owned spot that prioritises comfort, with log fires and squishy sofas that beg you to sink into them. One of the standout features for us motorhome owners is the floodlit parking—a small detail that makes a huge difference when you’re arriving late on a dark winter evening. The menu is honest and fresh, with meals made to order, and the atmosphere is incredibly relaxed. It’s the sort of place where you can kick off your boots and just breathe.
The Adventure
This stopover is a gateway to the high moors. You can easily access the path up to Yes Tor, one of the highest points on Dartmoor, directly from the local area. For a less vertical challenge, a walk around the nearby Meldon Reservoir offers stunning, reflective water views and is a fantastic spot for a morning dog walk before you hit the road.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/betty-cottles-inn/
The Highwayman Devon
The Vibe
Prepare yourself for something completely different. The Highwayman is widely cited as Britain’s most unusual pub, and for good reason. It’s a surreal, eclectic wonderland filled with curios, artefacts, and atmospheric decor that feels more like a movie set than a boozer. It’s quirky, slightly spooky, and absolutely unforgettable. Interestingly, the menu leans heavily towards plant-based and vegetarian options, which is a refreshing twist for a historic inn. If you want a story to tell your friends back home, park up here.
The Adventure
While the pub itself is an adventure, the location is prime for exploring the wilder side of Devon. You are right on the edge of the National Park, meaning you can step out into the rugged moorland within minutes. A short two-mile jaunt takes you into the heart of the landscape, where you can hunt for ancient stone circles and soak up the eerie beauty of the moors.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/the-highwayman-devon/
The Post Inn Okehampton
The Vibe
The Post Inn is a classic roadside village inn that has perfected the art of hospitality. Dating back to the 16th century, it combines history with a modern, family-friendly energy. The star of the show here is the beer garden—it’s spacious and offers panoramic views that are perfect for a sunny afternoon pint. Inside, it’s all about home-cooked Devonshire food and a “specials board” that actually changes. It’s a no-nonsense, high-quality stopover where you know exactly what you’re getting: great food, flat parking, and a good night’s sleep.
The Adventure
Located in Whiddon Down, this is a brilliant base for walkers who want to keep it local. You don’t need to drive to find green space; a five-minute walk from the pub takes you onto gentle countryside trails, perfect for stretching your legs after a long drive. If you are feeling more energetic, the National Trust’s Castle Drogo is just a short hop away for a dose of dramatic architecture.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/the-post-inn-okehampton/
Bearslake Inn Okehampton
The Vibe
This is the chocolate-box Devon pub you’ve been dreaming of. With its thick thatched roof, cob walls, and babbling stream running through the garden, Bearslake Inn is ridiculously picturesque. Inside, it’s cosy and intimate, with low beams and the smell of woodsmoke. The food is a cut above, focusing on high-quality West Country produce, making it a fantastic treat night. The meadow garden is a serene spot to park yourself (and your van) to listen to the water and watch the sun go down over the tors.
The Adventure
Location, location, location! The Granite Way cycle path runs literally just behind the pub. You can unhook your bikes and be on an 11-mile off-road trail in seconds, riding safe and flat paths through some of the best scenery in the UK. If you prefer hiking, a scramble up Sourton Tor offers panoramic rewards without needing to move the van.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/bearslake-inn-okehampton/
The White Hart Bridestowe
The Vibe
The White Hart is the beating heart of Bridestowe village. It’s a 17th-century pub that feels incredibly authentic, serving honest, home-cooked food like proper pies and lasagne that stick to your ribs. In the winter, the log fires make it a haven; in the summer, the outdoor seating by the small river is idyllic. It’s unflashy in the best possible way—just a solid, welcoming village pub where the locals will likely ask you about your travels and give you tips on where to go next.
The Adventure
Since you are parked in the village, take advantage of it. A stroll through Bridestowe reveals charming historic buildings and a lovely village green that feels like stepping back in time. It’s a slow-paced adventure, perfect for a lazy morning walk to pick up a paper and enjoy the quiet rural atmosphere before you head off to the nearby Exbourne Nature Trail.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/the-white-hart-bridestowe/
Acorn Farm Park
The Vibe
Okay, this one is a little bonus “hybrid” option. While it’s technically a family-run campsite, it offers that rare “best of both worlds” experience. You get the rustic elegance and community feel of a small site, but with the full facilities that some pub car parks lack (hello, electric hook-up and showers!). It’s situated right on the outskirts of Dolton, meaning you have a safe, dedicated pitch but are still within touching distance of the local village life. It’s perfect if you need a “reset” night to charge your batteries—both literally and metaphorically.
The Adventure
The beauty here is the convenience. You are a stone’s throw from the village shop for supplies and, crucially, the local village pub for dinner. You can leave the motorhome hooked up and safe while you enjoy a carefree evening stroll into Dolton to mix with the locals, knowing you have a proper pitch to return to.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/acorn-farm-park/
The Mare & Foal
The Vibe
Steeped in railway history, The Mare & Foal (which you might also hear referred to locally as The Duck) is a stunning detached freehouse that dates back to 1860. It was originally a railway hotel, and it retains that grand, spacious feel with high ceilings, exposed beams, and open fireplaces. The grounds are generous, which is always a relief for motorhome drivers, and the atmosphere is one of traditional comfort. It’s a detached property, so it feels private and peaceful—a great spot to unwind away from the hustle of the main roads.
The Adventure
This is the ultimate stop for train lovers. Yeoford Train Station is less than half a mile away, giving you access to the scenic Tarka Line. You can park the van up and hop on a train to Exeter or Barnstaple for a day trip, enjoying the rolling countryside from a carriage window. It’s a fantastic way to explore the region without having to pack up your entire rig for the day.
👉 View this listing & host details: https://www.motorhomestopoverclub.com/places/the-mare-foal/
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