The Horse
Forget everything you thought you knew about pubs; this place is a total vibe. It's an absolute behemoth, but in the best way possible. The whole spot is decked out with this funky, artsy, trendy decor that's a feast for the eyes. It's got that cool, curated feel without being stuffy, and you'll probably want to snap a hundred photos for your Instagram.
The room out the back is epic with its huge ceilings and open space, it feels like a modern-day Viking hall, perfect for everything from big group dinners to a lively night of drinks. And get this: the amazing open kitchen means you can watch the chef work his magic, so you know your food is fresh and on point.
The staff are super friendly, serving up a good selection on tap with a smile. But the real star of the show might just be the official greeter: a friendly dachshund named Theodore. He's an absolute legend, and his little cameo is just another touch that makes this place so unique. With a great beer garden to round things out, this pub is the perfect blend of style, substance, and good times.
P&P
Background....
Originally, the building may have been 16th-century cottages, with the first record of an inn on this site dating back to 1799. It was previously known as "The White Horse." In the early 2000s, Malene and Nigel took over the 18th-century inn, rebranding it as "The Horse" to pursue their dream of running a friendly local pub with top-quality rooms and imaginative food.
The building has seen significant events, including being almost completely destroyed by fire in 1845. In the 19th century, it was a meeting place for wrestling matches. An ancient oak beam spanning the modern bar is said to have once borne carvings of the King's head, which were reportedly mutilated by the Roundheads during the Civil War.
Of particular interest is the "Painted Room" upstairs. Recently uncovered and restored, the walls of this room are painted with Etruscan-style panels separated by heraldic devices. This work has been attributed to French prisoners of war who were in Moretonhampstead in the early 1800s.
Over fifteen years ago, Nigel and Malene moved from London and took over the establishment, rebranding it as "The Horse." Their vision was to create a friendly local pub offering top-quality accommodation and imaginative food. Despite facing challenges like the financial crash and the COVID-19 pandemic, they successfully developed two en-suite bedrooms, establishing The Horse as a popular destination for travellers exploring Dartmoor.
The Horse is renowned for its Mediterranean-inspired cooking, particularly its stone-baked pizzas, and is featured in guidebooks like The Michelin Guide and The Trencherman's Guide. It also offers luxury accommodation and regularly hosts live music, including a monthly local musicians' showcase and a popular folk night.
