Forest Inn
Just as a chess champion seeks the optimal position, this country pub on the moors presents a strategically perfect retreat. From its vantage point, the expansive views unfold like a masterfully laid-out board, offering unparalleled clarity and a sense of vast potential.
Inside, the homely decor provides the ideal environment for focus and contemplation, a sanctuary free from distraction. Behind the bar, one finds Richard, the chess-playing champion himself. His presence is not merely welcoming but friendly and genuinely helpful, akin to a skilled opponent who guides you to a better understanding of the game.
Our choice for refreshment was deliberate: a pint of Carlsberg and a pint of a legend ale – a move that solidified the experience. The subsequent relaxation in the beer garden was the ultimate checkmate, a moment of profound satisfaction after a well-played day. This isn't just a pub; it's a testament to precision, comfort, and quiet victory.
P&P
Background....
The inn was originally built in the early to mid-19th century, with some sources suggesting its origins date back to the late 1800s or even as early as 1654, when it was a farmhouse converted into an inn. It was owned by the Duchy of Cornwall.
Fire and Rebuilding: In 1913, the inn was almost completely destroyed by a fire. Only a small section of the original building survived. The rebuilt inn was completed in 1916.
Later Alterations: More recently, the remaining original section of the building was removed, and the premises were extended to their current size.
Notable Association: The Forest Inn was a favorite haunt of William Crossing, the famous Dartmoor guide and author. It is also mentioned in his "Crossing's Guide to Dartmoor."
Current Status: Today, it is a family-run inn offering home-cooked food, accommodation, and hospitality. It's a popular spot for walkers and nature lovers due to its location in Dartmoor National Park, overlooking the Dart Valley. The property has undergone recent refurbishments, including the installation of a biomass woodchip boiler. It has an established reputation for its letting accommodation and is popular for its Sunday carvery, darts team, and as a destination for pony trekking groups, walkers, and ramblers.
