The Poltimore Inn

North Molton sits at the gateway to Exmoor, and the village pub here has an observatory. Not a telescope in the car park, an actual observatory, run by resident astronomers Jo and Pete Richardson of Space Detectives, with regular stargazing events marking the Exmoor Dark Skies Reserve. A virtual reality space experience joined the line-up in 2023. It is a community hub first, but few community hubs can offer you the universe.

Back on the ground, food is cooked in house down to the components, with breads, cakes and desserts made in the kitchens and ingredients sourced locally wherever possible. It has a Taste of the West Gold Award to show for it. There are local real ales, wines, a south facing beer garden with sculptures, and a restaurant seating up to 60 with countryside views. Open all day, seven days. Book ahead at busy times.