The Tors Inn
Step into a truly delightful pub experience where the ale selection is good, You'll be particularly pleased to find a fantastic brew on offer that's crafted just up the road – a wonderful touch that highlights local craftsmanship. The decor inside is lovely, creating a chilled, relaxed, and genuinely good vibe that makes you feel right at home the moment you walk in.
Head out back to discover their absolutely huge beer garden. Here, you'll be treated to stunning, expansive views of Dartmoor, providing the perfect backdrop for a leisurely drink.
And for those craving a bite, there's an incredible bonus. Just across the road from the beer garden, you'll find a charming burger shed that also conveniently offers beer on tap. You can enjoy a tasty, freshly ordered burger perfectly paired with another refreshing pint – it's the ideal complement to your pub visit.
This place truly offers a wonderful combination of great drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, and delicious food options.
Background....
he Tors Inn in Belstone, Okehampton, has a significant place in the heart of this Dartmoor village, though its current iteration isn't as ancient as some other inns.
Replacing an Older Inn: The current Tors Inn was built in the late 19th century, specifically replacing an older inn that was destroyed by fire in 1896. This fire would have been a major event for the small community of Belstone.
Construction: The new building was constructed by local stonemasons using granite brought down from the nearby tors, giving it a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
Original Layout: When first built, the Tors Inn had two public bars, and a long corridor ran where the main bar is situated today. This suggests a traditional layout designed to serve the local community and visitors.
Named "The New Inn" initially: Historical records, such as the Tithe Map (1838-1848), show an earlier establishment in Belstone referred to as "The New Inn" (plot 189; Houses and Yard; New Inn). It's highly probable that the Tors Inn, after the fire and rebuilding, took on a variation of this name or eventually settled on "The Tors Inn" due to its proximity to the iconic Belstone Tors.
Refurbishments: The interior of the Tors Inn was refurbished in 1973, indicating updates over the decades to maintain its facilities and appeal.
Community Hub: Like many village pubs, The Tors Inn has long served as a vital social and community hub for Belstone. It's a popular starting point for walkers exploring Dartmoor's northern plateau and its numerous tors.
Modern Day: Today, The Tors Inn continues to be a "proper pub," offering food, drinks (including local Dartmoor ales), and accommodation. It's known for its welcoming atmosphere and the stunning views from its beer garden towards Cosdon Hill. It also hosts various community events, including live music and open mic nights.
