Hidden away in the Otter Valley, traditional countryside charm meets sophisticated yet informal high-end dining.

A grand country estate entrance sets the tone and sparks the excitement, leading you towards the picturesque Elizabethan house and gardens. Inside, panelled walling is adorned with rural artefacts to create a stripped-back elegance. It is grand, yet unassuming. A bold use of plants and natural decorations further enhance the décor to create both a relaxed and refined dining experience with roots firmly reflecting the local area. 

The entire menu is based on ingredients sourced within a 25-mile radius. Gardener and chef work closely together utilising the three walled kitchen gardens within the grounds. Each garden is cultivated carefully – one specialising in vegetables, one herbs and the other for specialist infusions, all to reflect and stay true to the micro seasons of what is fresh and at its best. Further afield within the radius, strong relationships have been forged with coast and country food and drink suppliers to create an everchanging menu – sometimes even daily – that celebrates and honours Devon producers. 

Fine cuts of locally reared meats sit alongside fresh fish dishes and creative vegetarian options to offer a variety of carefully curated mains and starters. The smoked apple jack cheese sauce with the Beech Ridge chicken breast is a standout pairing, and the imaginative use of wasabi with rocket and broad beans brings an exciting new twist to a quality pork chop.

Dessert lovers are spoilt with a number of inventive delights – don’t miss the cinder toffee terrine or the boozy blood orange fool. A whole variety of local cheeses are offered with optional wine pairing too if that’s more your thing.

Meanwhile, staff are knowledgeable on what makes up their menu, providing an attentive service that is casual while maintaining professionalism.

Keep coming back to enjoy this fantastic location in all its guises. Discover The Folly tucked away in the grounds’ gardens with its stripped back walls and statement-making reclaimed furniture, with a menu focusing on freshly-made, smokey wood-oven flatbreads, small plates and sweet treats. Four-legged friends are welcome here too! Summer diners can also book a table in the outdoor covered terrace with stunning views across the grounds and countryside beyond.

Whether it’s a special occasion, a fancy date night or a chance to taste all that Devon has to offer, The Pig at Combe creates an inclusive, welcoming experience you’ll truly savour.

Words: Jake Tucker