Clinton Arms

The Clinton Arms sits on Maer Lane in Littleham, on the edge of Exmouth, and runs as a proper family local rather than a destination restaurant. There's a large beer garden, plenty of customer parking, and both indoor and outdoor areas set aside for children - practical details that matter more here than a fancy menu.

Food sticks to pub classics done well: steak and ale pie, homemade chilli, and Yorkshire puddings served properly giant rather than the shrunken supermarket kind, alongside a Sunday carvery for the weekend crowd. The drinks side covers real ales, beers, ciders, spirits and wines rather than specialising in any one of them. What sets it apart from a quieter village local is the programme of events - quiz night every Wednesday, regular karaoke and live music - which keeps it busy through the week rather than just at weekends. It's dog-friendly, with water bowls out and dog walks nearby, and a pool and darts area for anyone who wants a proper local-pub evening rather than a meal out.