Tom Cobley Tavern, Crediton

Blackthorn _ left this review about Tom Cobley Tavern

Located in a small village just a short drive from the A3124, this is unlikely to get too much in the way of passing trade, but is nonetheless well worth making the effort to track down, being the only pub in the country to have won both the National Pub of the Year (2006) and the National Cider Pub of the Year (2023).

It sits on the end of a row of cottages, and has an attractive thatched porch in front of the entrance, as well as a few picnic benches out the front. It’s very traditional inside too, with red quarry tiling on the floor, a whitewashed ceiling and rough white plasterwork on much of the walls, with dark wood panelling down below. Further thatching was over the bar counter which was an unusual feature, there was a fireplace to one side with a copper chimney hood, darts board, and a few old pictures of the pub on the walls as well as plenty of Camra accolades. Beyond this was a small snug with whitewashed stone walling, red patterned carpet and plenty of beer mats on the walls and beyond this again, extending back considerably further than might be expected, was another room that looked to be more geared up for dining, although it was still quite traditional in appearance with black beams on the ceiling, tartan carpet on the floor and much exposed stonework.

Despite eight hand pumps on the bar, only three were in use dispensing Otter Ale, Teignworthy Thirsty Blond and Firebrand Patchwork Rocket. That said, we visited on a Thursday lunchtime, perhaps they have more on a weekend. Ciders are the main draw here though, and a chalkboard next to the bar listed 20 or more, all organised by county, and all from the south west, with the vast majority from Devon. All in all a cracking little pub, with a cheerful and welcoming landlady. Well worth a visit.

On 2^nd June 2026 - rating: 9
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