Old Exeter Inn, Ashburton

The oldest pub in Ashburton, built in 1130 to house the workers of St. Andrews Church (opposite the inn) and has remained an inn since that date although it was originally known as the Church House Inn. Behind the bar in what was the old fireplace can be seen the large original millstones and this area houses a granite shelf for the serving of the gravity fed ales. It is reputed that Sir Francis Drake was a regular drinker at the inn on his journeys to London as was Sir Walter Raleigh. Raleigh was arrested at the Exeter Inn and imprisoned in the Tower of London on 19th July 1603, accused of plotting against the king. There are seated drinking areas either side of the entrance hallway in the main bar, which is L-shaped, rustic and wood-panelled. There are smaller seated areas at the rear. Lovely flagstone floored corridor leads to a secluded walled garden outside at the back. A range of local real Ciders are on sale. This pub consistently features in the GBG. Pub is Cashless, accepting card payments only