Taw River Inn
This is definitely a spot I'd happily return to! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by nice, friendly bar ladies who really make you feel welcome. The pub itself has a wonderfully good atmosphere – it's the kind of place where you can truly relax and enjoy yourself.
It's a beautiful thatched pub, adding to its traditional charm and making it feel like a quintessential English countryside experience. The home-cooked food was incredibly tasty and was very reasonably priced, which is always a huge plus.
Our visit was a truly pleasant one, and it's clear this pub nails that perfect combination of warmth, good value, and genuine hospitality.
P&P
Background......
The Taw River Inn in Sticklepath, Okehampton, has a long and interesting history, deeply intertwined with the development of the village itself.
Here's a breakdown of its history:
Early Origins (16th-17th Century): The building that now houses the Taw River Inn is believed to date back to the 16th century, with significant alterations in the 17th century. It was originally a three-room and through-passage plan. Historic England's listing notes two granite date-stones on the first floor, inscribed "WH 1660" and "WH 1694," suggesting key periods of alteration or ownership. It's thought to have been part of a cluster of buildings known as "Hall's Tenement" or "Hole's Tenement," which held some quasi-manorial status in the village.
Former Names: The inn has gone by several names over the centuries:
The Cornish Inn: This was a notable name for the establishment, and it's mentioned that John Cook, a butcher and licensee of "The Cornish Inn," helped fund the new church in Sticklepath in 1875.
The Taw River Hotel: At some point, it transitioned to being known as the Taw River Hotel before becoming the Taw River Inn.
Architectural Evolution: The building has seen various updates over its lifetime. It received a Georgian makeover around 1800 and was further modernised in the 20th century, while still retaining its historic charm, including its thatched roof and granite walls.
Community Hub: Inns historically served as important community centers, and the Taw River Inn was no exception. Historical records suggest it was a place where:
Coroner's inquests were held.The November 5th bonfire (Guy Fawkes Night) was at one time held in the street outside.
The local Hunt often met there.
Location and Significance: Its location in Sticklepath, on the edge of Dartmoor and by the River Taw, has been crucial to its existence. The village itself has a rich history tied to water power (with its historic mills, including the National Trust's Finch Foundry) and its position on a main road.
Today, the Taw River Inn continues to be a traditional village inn, contributing to the character and community of Sticklepath.
