The Ramblers' Rest - Princetown

The impressive Boringdon Hall Hotel plays host to this cosy, intimate restaurant, which sits under wooden beams within the former minstrels’ gallery. The building itself dates back to the Domesday book and still exudes a historic feel. Prime seasonal ingredients feature in exciting modern dishes which are refined yet restrained and demonstrate great attention to detail. The range of internationally influenced flavours are knowledgably balanced, aptly demonstrated by the cured hamachi with subtle yuzu ponzu.

As you drive down the narrow, winding lane leading to Gidleigh Park, just know that you will be handsomely rewarded at the end of your journey. Situated inside a grand Edwardian mansion, this is the epitome of country house dining; the setting, both inside and out, is beautiful, while the cooking is underpinned by superb premium ingredients from lobster to venison. Their delicious natural flavours are showcased in classically based dishes with the odd dash of international flair. Any visit here is a joy, but staying over in the hotel makes it feel all the more special.

The northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna provides the inspiration behind this classic osteria set within a former bank in the centre of town. The daily changing menu is chalked on the door of the old vault, which now houses the wines, and from the tiny kitchen comes forth flavoursome and generously priced dishes that you feel are doing you good. There’s a daily offal dish and the pasta is made in-house.

You couldn’t meet a friendlier family than the parents, daughter and son-in-law who run this rustic roadside pub. With its cosy, shabby-chic style, it's an undeniably charming and characterful place where everyone feels welcome. The bar area is filled with locals and their dogs enjoying a drink, while diners are spread across several dining rooms in which they enjoy the straightforward, satisfying cooking that derives plenty of flavour from the quality local produce.

The team behind Emilia, situated just a few doors down, have imparted another gift to the residents of Ashburton with this delightful rustic bistro. Where its sister operation is all-Italian, Le Vin Perdu is full-blooded French in its approach, so don’t be surprised to find the likes of pork terrine or rotisserie chicken on the menu. The décor is understatedly chic, with the bar making a great place for a cocktail or a glass of wine from the blackboard list. If you’re sweet of tooth, the tarte Tatin is a great note to end on.During autumn and winter, Le Vin Perdu runs limited opening hours.