North Devon Famous for Food
North Devon is a Mecca for Foodies! With so much great local produce on our doorstep we are spoilt for choices for great places to eat out. Just before your arrival our guests receive a digital guest book with links to all the best local places to dine and enjoy, we always advise making bookings in advance during the school holidays.
The countryside and coast of North Devon have been renowned for delicious seafood, meat, fruit and vegetables for centuries. A mild climate and fertile land have helped this beautiful region to develop a reputation for producing some of the UK’s very best produce. North Devon’s culinary traditions are still going strong, too, and can be experienced at farmers’ markets, family-run butchers, fishmongers, tearooms, and village pubs.
If you would rather take a visit to the local fishmonger on the docks at Appledore or have the very best seasonal fruit and veg delivered to your cottage by Local Farm Box, it’s all here!
Here’s some of the food and drink you won’t want to miss in North Devon.
Cream Tea
A holiday in North Devon would be incomplete without a classic Devonshire cream tea, with scones warm from the oven, locally produced clotted cream and strawberry or raspberry jam. What’s more, you won’t have to go far to enjoy this decadent tradition. Tea on the Green is a lovely tearoom in the heart of Westward Ho!, Be sure to book in advance and don’t forget to spread your scone with cream before jam (rather than the other way around, which is the tradition in Cornwall).
Cheese
Farms across North Devon use traditional techniques to produce a variety of tasty cheeses. John’s of Instow is a lovely café and deli overlooking the River Torridge, a few miles east of Westward Ho! As well as a fine selection of local cheeses, John’s sells freshly baked bread, quiches, pies and smoked fish. It’s also a great spot to enjoy a coffee and watch the world by in this pretty village. They also have a lovely little deli in Appledore which is worth a visit.
Cider
The Westcountry is famous for cider and North Devon is home to many of its best-loved producers. Local, traditionally made varieties are easy to find in the region’s pubs and shops. A local favourite is Sams Ciderbased in Winkleigh. If you’re a real cider fan, why not book a tour of the factory, After a quick tasting session, choose your favourite and watch it being bottled for you to take home.
Fish
Dan Garnett, also known as Dan the Fishman, has been selling the freshest fish at markets across North Devon for years. You’ll find him at the market on Mill Street in Bideford from 9am to 1pm, and at Hartland Farmers’ Market on the 1st Sunday of the month. Alternatively take a visit to the Devon and Cornwall Fish Company in Appledore docks, about 4 miles away from Westward Living Holiday Cottages, they have the best daily catches fresh from the sea.
Pub Food
North Devon’s pubs are a must if you want to get to know the locals over a pint. Many also have a reputation for excellent food, from fresh seafood and fish and chips to locally sourced steaks and Sunday roasts. Just outside Westward Ho! The Thatched Inn at Abbotsham serves a wide selection of local ciders and ales, and a range of cooked-to-order daily specials, prepared with the best seasonal ingredients.
Here is a link to eating out in Westward Ho!
https://www.visitwestwardho.co.uk/eating-out
