The Royal Oak Inn

The Royal Oak Inn is a thatched pub at the centre of Ideford, a small Saxon village near Chudleigh, and it looks the part inside as well as out - a single bar with an open fireplace, flagstone floor and beamed ceiling, all dating back to the 17th century. It's the kind of village local that exists as much for the community around it as for passing trade.

Hand-pulled traditional ales are the draw at the bar, and the kitchen does homemade meals in generous portions that reviewers rate consistently well. There's a patio at the rear, a beer garden for sunnier days, and its own car park across the road, plus traditional pub games inside for anyone settling in for the evening. It's dog friendly and family friendly, and it keeps the atmosphere of a proper village inn rather than one dressed up for visitors.