The Luppitt Inn, Honiton

A very special old farmhouse pub in a 17th Century house which has been in the same family for 5 generations. There was a brief hiatus after the current landlady’s grandmother died, but the pub reopened last year after after work to extend the bar inside the house. The location is impressive, not far from the A30 but it feels very rural and secluded, and there are fine views over the Devon countryside. There is no real car park or garden, and the pub sites on the corner of what appears to be a working farm yard. On entering it feels like walking into someone’s front room, which actually it is really. The bar counter has no gas pumps, just a pin of Otter Bitter which was fresh and most enjoyable. There was a small selection of cans and bottles, including cider. There are no electronic distractions, just a selection of puzzles and convivial chat including locals and staff. Seating is eclectic, dogs are welcomed. A local artist has placed several of her paintings around the walls to sell. No food is on offer and opening times are restricted to three evenings a week, but if it fits the itinerary, it’s well worth a visit. It’s on the CAMRA Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors.

Official site of The Luppitt Inn - theluppittinn.com

Official site of The Luppitt Inn - theluppittinn.com

An amazing slice of living history. Apart from a rusting sign in the hedge, there is little to show this is a pub (or indeed that it is open). But if there is life through the window, try the large door and you will find yourself in the front parlour of a farmhouse, with a simple bar and just one table, covered in random puzzles. Incredibly still run by the 95 year-old landlady, who will pour you a pint of Otter, specially racked into a polypin by the nearby brewery. Then marvel at how anywhere could survive so unchanged for so long. There is also a little-used room with a dartboard adjoining. The catch is that it is pretty remote and only opens from 7 to 10.30 in the evenings, not on Sundays.