The White Hart Hotel
This historical hotel has clearly been brought into the modern era with style. The modern decor mixed with the old-style charm creates a beautiful and welcoming atmosphere. You get the best of both worlds—the rich history of the building and the comfort and sleekness of contemporary design.
The hotel’s amenities are top-notch. With a good selection on tap, you know you're in for a great drink no matter what you're in the mood for. The two distinct bars are a brilliant touch. One is perfect for soliciting and chatting with friends, creating a lively, social atmosphere. The other, with its casual vibe and big screen playing sports, is ideal for kicking back and relaxing.
The big courtyard outdoor beer garden is a fantastic place to unwind, while the function rooms at the back make it a versatile venue for events. With a couple of big rooms at the entrance, it’s clear this hotel is designed to be a bustling hub, ready to welcome guests for any occasion.
P&P
Background....
Origins and Early History (17th - 18th Century):
Ancient Roots: The White Hart Hotel is Moretonhampstead's oldest surviving inn. While some sources suggest parts date to the early 17th century, others point to its official license as Okehampton's premier inn being granted in 1623 when the town's charter was established.
Rebuilding after Fire: It's believed that the current building dates from the mid-18th century, having been constructed after a fire destroyed previous houses on the site.
Coaching Inn Era: The hotel flourished as a busy "posting inn" during the reign of King George III. It was a crucial stop for mail coaches traveling between Exeter and Plymouth, where horses were changed, and mail for the surrounding area was loaded and unloaded. The stables were historically located at the rear of the building, with horses led through a wide passage from the front door to reach them.
The White Hart Emblem: The name "White Hart" is a common inn sign, being the heraldic emblem of King Richard II.4 An act in 1393 made it compulsory for inns to have signs for identification, leading to the widespread adoption of such emblems.
Notable Events and Connections:
French Officers on Parole: During the Napoleonic Wars, when French prisoners of war were held at Princetown, their officers on parole would frequently meet at The White Hart.
Dartmoor Tinners' Great Court: The last meeting of the Dartmoor Tinners' Great Court was held at The White Hart in 1786.
Tragic Incident: In 1835, farmer Jonathan May was tragically ambushed and robbed on his way home after concluding business and displaying money at the White Hart. He died the following day.
The Trafalgar Way: The hotel was part of "The Trafalgar Way," the historic route used to carry dispatches with the news of the Battle of Trafalgar from Falmouth to the Admiralty in London in November 1805. Lieutenant Lapenotiere was the first messenger to race to London with the news of Nelson's victory and death.
Community Hub: Over the centuries, The White Hart has been a popular meeting place and a central point for community events, including election dinners, court sessions, and balls.
Distinguished Visitors: Historical records mention various notable figures passing through, including Judges Buller and Grose in 1799, Lord Boringdon in 1802, and Lord Courtenay who visited in 1806, providing a public ball and supper at the White Hart.
Architectural Significance:
The White Hart Hotel is a Grade II listed building, reflecting its architectural and historical importance. Its largely unaltered 18th-century exterior significantly contributes to the townscape of Moretonhampstead.
It features a steeply pitched hipped slate roof and a central wide entrance through-passage.
Recent History and Current Status:
New Ownership and Refurbishment: The White Hart Hotel has seen various owners throughout its long history. More recently, in early 2024, the Jackson family acquired the hotel and undertook a significant £500,000 refurbishment of its bars, restaurant, communal areas, and kitchen. Their aim is to preserve its rich history while providing modern comforts.
Continued Importance: Today, The White Hart continues to operate as a flourishing independent hotel, serving as a welcoming stop for travellers exploring Dartmoor National Park and remaining a pillar of the Moretonhampstead community, known for its commitment to sourcing local ingredients and supporting local events.
The White Hart Hotel stands as a testament to Moretonhampstead's enduring history as a market town and a gateway to Dartmoor, offering centuries of stories within its walls.
