Nestled in the sleepy village of Kenn, just outside Exeter, The Ley Arms is a 12th-century coaching inn that delivers all the charm you’d hope for from a thatched Devon pub, with low beams, roaring fires and a menu that makes it hard to leave.

Despite its postcard looks, there’s nothing stuffy here. It’s a proper local with a warm welcome, a dog-friendly bar and a kitchen that knows what it’s doing. Seasonal dishes are crafted with produce from Devon’s finest suppliers, think rich slow-cooked meats, fresh seafood, and Sunday roasts worth travelling for. There’s a well-stocked bar of local ales, craft beers and wines by the glass, plus a lovely beer garden for those sunny afternoons.

To the side of the pub, there are a handful of charming rooms for those who want to make a night of it. There are also two holiday cottages available. The owners, Karen and Martin are brother and sister, and it is no surprise that the accommodation is so impressively designed. Martin is a former New York based knitwear designer for Burberry and Ralph Lauren and Karen has a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, the perfect combination that runs through the core of this stunning place.

Conveniently located, you wouldn’t know it, but you’re not far from the M5. The surrounding village and countryside offer plenty of walking routes too, with views over the estuary and rolling Devon hills. Whether you’re in need of a long lunch, a weekend away, or just a great pint in front of the fire, The Ley Arms makes a very strong case for slowing down. It’s the kind of pub that’s been doing things right for centuries, and still feels like a hidden gem worth writing home about.