The Bell Inn

Rectory Lane in Parkham, deep in the countryside behind Bideford, holds a 13th century pub that began life as a forge and two farm workers' cottages. The cream painted frontage and newly thatched roof give little away; inside there are oak beams, cob walls and wood burners doing the work they have always done. Few pubs in this corner of Devon wear their history quite so plainly, or so well.

The kitchen turns out home cooked dishes made with fresh local produce wherever it can be sourced, alongside local ales and ciders at the bar. There are garden areas for warmer days and two en suite B&B rooms upstairs, which makes this a sensible base if you are walking or driving the north Devon coast rather than just passing through. Worth ringing ahead if you want a room.