The Dining Guide: Where to Eat & Drink Near Exmoor Cliff Retreat

One of the great pleasures of staying at Exmoor Cliff Retreat is discovering the excellent food and drink scene across Lynton, Lynmouth, Exmoor National Park and the North Devon coast.

From traditional pubs and cosy cafés to harbour-side seafood, stylish tapas, contemporary dining, cream teas, wine bars, and relaxed coastal lunches, the area offers something for every taste and occasion – all within easy reach of our 5-star adults-only boutique B&B in Lynton.

Below is a general guide to some of the most popular and well-known restaurants, pubs, cafés and places to eat in Lynton, Lynmouth and Exmoor, helping you make the most of your time exploring this beautiful part of North Devon.

Guests who book directly with Exmoor Cliff Retreat also receive access to our private Insider Track dining guide – featuring our own personally curated recommendations, hidden gems, scenic lunch stops, favourite tables, local tips, and honest reviews gathered from years of living and hosting here on Exmoor.

Because while anybody can find the obvious places online… the really memorable ones are usually shared quietly.

DINING IN LYNTON & LYNMOUTH

The Old Bank – english tapas

The Old Bank serves a mix of meat and fish dishes in a small-plate style, often described as English tapas. The menu changes seasonally, offering a variety of flavours designed for sharing.

Website: theoldbanklynton.co.uk | 01598 751487

The Oak Room – Authentic Spanish Tapas & Fine Wines

A vibrant tapas restaurant where traditional Spanish flavours meet modern culinary techniques. Enjoy an array of small plates designed for sharing, perfectly paired with an impressive wine list in a warm, inviting ambiance.

Website: theoakroomlynton.co.uk | 01598 753838

Kensington – Contemporary Exmoor Dining

Restaurant Kensington is an exciting new dining concept in Lynton, led by the team behind “The Old Bank.” The restaurant emphasises a celebration of local and seasonal produce, with a particular focus on local Exmoor beef. Elegantly styled without pretension, it promises a contemporary and memorable dining experience that truly reflects the best of the region’s culinary heritage.

Website: restaurantkensington.co.uk | 01598 751021

 The Vanilla Pod – Mediterranean & Middle Eastern Fusion

A vibrant restaurant serving Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine in the heart of Lynton. The menu features a range of flavourful dishes, including mezze platters, tagines, fresh seafood and seasonal specials, alongside homemade desserts and a carefully selected drinks menu.

Open for lunch and dinner.

Website: thevanillapodlynton.co.uk | 01598 753706

The Crown Hotel – Traditional British Pub Classics

A charming coaching inn that offers hearty, classic pub fare in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere—ideal for a comforting meal after a day exploring Exmoor.

Website: thecrownlynton.co.uk | 01598 752253

Nartnapa Thai Kitchen – The Queens, Lynton and The Rock Lynmouth

Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine served across two welcoming locations on Exmoor, combining vibrant flavours with relaxed West Country hospitality.

Run by Pam (Thai) and Gary, Nartnapa offers freshly prepared dishes inspired by traditional Thai cooking, served within the characterful settings of local pubs.

Website: thequeenslynton.co.uk | 01598 752075

Website: rockhouselynmouth.co.uk | 01598 720590

Number Ten – Rustic Italian Pizza & Pasta

An Italian restaurant in Lynton that serves pizzas and traditional pasta dishes.

Phone No. 01598 751028

The Spicy Mare – Traditional Indian Takeaway

Indulge in aromatic Indian cuisine featuring expertly spiced curries and traditional dishes, perfect for a relaxed night in or a casual meal on the go.

Phone No. 07507 720053

The Greenhouse

The Greenhouse has been standing strong since the late 1800s—clearly built to last, just like their reputation. Whether you’re after a light bite or something more substantial like a Westcountry burger, specialty pizza, or classic fish and chips, they’ve got you covered. Cozy, welcoming, and full of character.

Website: greenhouselynton.co.uk | 01598 751646

SEASIDE DINING & HISTORIC INNS

The Ancient Mariner – A Seafood Lover’s Dream

A nautically themed restaurant that celebrates the bounty of the sea. Enjoy freshly caught fish and innovative seafood dishes served in a setting inspired by maritime tradition.

Website: ancientmarinerlynmouth.co.uk | 01598 752280

The Rising Sun – Historic 14th-Century Inn

Nestled in Lynmouth, this atmospheric inn serves a menu built around locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of traditional British fare in a setting steeped in history.

Website: risingsunlynmouth.co.uk | 01598 752223

Bonnicott House Bay View Restaurant – Coastal Charm & Local Flavours

Savour a locally inspired menu in a beautiful coastal setting. Fresh, seasonal dishes with a strong fish offer highlight the best produce and seafood the region has to offer.

Website: bonnicott.com | 01598 753346

Esplanade Fish Bar & Harbour Shed Fish & Chips – The Classic Seaside Experience

Enjoy freshly battered fish and chips served in a relaxed, seaside atmosphere. Whether you choose the Esplanade Fish Bar or the Harbour Shed, you’re in for an authentic coastal treat with all the charm (and seagulls) of Lynmouth.

Esplanade Fish Bar: 01598 753798 | Harbour Shed: View Menu

Please Note: Don’t rely on the publicly advertised opening hours-both spots have been known to change their hours at short notice without updating listings. We recommend calling ahead to avoid disappointment.

The Meat Hub – Gourmet Burgers & Kebab Specialties

A laid-back eatery offering a selection of handcrafted burgers, lamb kebabs, and more, prepared using high-quality ingredients for a satisfying meal every time

Phone No. 07885 290516

Mad 4 Seafood – Fresh, Local, Delicious

Located on the Esplanade in Lynmouth, Mad 4 Seafood serves up the best of the day’s local catch – from crab and lobster to mussels and more. Open mid-mornings to late afternoon, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed seaside lunch with a glass of wine. Just steps from the harbour and a short trip on the cliff railway.

DINING IN EXMOOR & BEYOND

The Blue Ball Inn, Countisbury – Traditional Pub with Local Ales

A classic countryside inn offering hearty meals and a fine selection of regional ales, perfect for an authentic English pub experience.

Website: blueballinn.com

The Black Venus Inn, Challacombe – Award-Winning Pub Dining

A charming country pub where expertly cooked dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients create a memorable dining experience in a relaxed setting.

Phone No. 01598 763251

Pyne Arms, East Down – Elevated Pub Fare with a Modern Twist

This gastropub is celebrated for its innovative approach to classic British dishes, prepared with locally sourced produce that highlights the best of Exmoor.

Website: pynearms.com | 01271 850055

Fox and Goose, Parracombe – A Hidden Gem with a Daily Changing Menu

Enjoy a unique dining experience at this characterful inn where the menu changes daily, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients in every dish.

Website: foxandgooseinnexmoor.co.uk | 01598 763239

The Old Station House Inn, Blackmoor Gate – Historic Railway Station Turned Pub

Dine in a beautifully restored railway station offering classic pub grub in an ambiance that uniquely blends history with hospitality.

Website: oldstationhouseinn.com | 01598 763520

The Coach House at Kentisbury Grange – Refined Country Dining

Set in an elegant country house, this restaurant transforms locally sourced ingredients into innovative, contemporary dishes that celebrate the best of the region.

Website: kentisburygrange.com | 01271 545008

The Rockford Inn, Brendon – 17th-Century Charm & Wholesome Fare

A charming historic inn offering generous, home-cooked meals in a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a hearty, traditional dining experience.

Website: therockfordinn.co.uk | 01598 741214

The Hunters Inn, Martinhoe – Seasonal Pub Classics in a Historic Setting

Nestled in a beautiful Exmoor valley, this historic inn serves up comforting, seasonal dishes crafted from the finest local produce.

Website: bespokehotels.com | 01598 763230

Giovanni and Luca, Ilfracombe – Authentic Italian in a Lively Setting

Traditional Italian favourites, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty pasta dishes served with flair and flavour in the heart of Ilfracombe.

Website: giovanniandluca.co.uk | 01271 869394

Beachside Grill – Coastal Flavours by the Sea

Overlooking Saunton Sands, this relaxed beachside restaurant serves a mix of fresh seafood, gourmet burgers, and grilled favourites using locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for casual dining with stunning ocean views.

Website: sauntonsands.co.uk | 01271 892001

The Staghunters Inn, Brendon – Riverside Charm & Hearty Classics

A family-run inn by the East Lyn River offering a well-rounded menu of pub favourites—think homemade pies, Exmoor steaks, fresh fish, and indulgent desserts—all served in a cosy bar or leafy riverside garden.

Website: staghunters.com | 01598 741222

The Exmoor Forest Inn – Moorland Dining in the Heart of Exmoor

Set in the remote village of Simonsbath, this historic inn offers hearty yet refined dishes made with locally sourced game, fish, and seasonal produce. A welcoming spot for relaxed dining after a day exploring the moor.

Website: exmoorforestinn.com | 01643 831341

Cafés & Cream Teas – A Devonshire Tradition

Lynton and Lynmouth boast a delightful selection of cafés perfect for a light lunch or the quintessential Devon cream tea. Enjoy warm scones with clotted cream and jam alongside freshly brewed tea in charming tearooms or bustling waterfront cafés, all set against the backdrop of North Devon’s stunning landscapes.

Taxis & Local Transport

Riverside Taxi: 01598 753442
Lyn Valley Taxi: 07907 161666

Book Your Stay & Unlock Exclusive Dining Recommendations!

Upon booking your stay at Exmoor Cliff Retreat, gain access to a specially curated dining guide with insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and experience the finest flavours of Exmoor. Let Exmoor Cliff Retreat be your gateway to the ultimate food lover’s escape.