Devon pub named among UK’s best for a walk and Sunday roast
Perfect for a vacation and more
A Devon pub has been named among UK’s best for a walk and Sunday roast. The Coombe Cellars in Newton Abbot has made the top 10 list – and the other entries are worth bookmarking for your next weekend getaway.
A Devon pub has been named among the UK’s best for Sunday lunch lovers, according to a new list from a leading hospitality app.
The Coombe Cellars in Combeinteignhead, near Newton Abbot, has secured a spot on Eat Drink Meet’s top 10 destinations for pairing a countryside walk with a Sunday roast, cementing its reputation as a standout spot for a cosy feast by the water.
But while Devon proudly takes its place in the spotlight, the rest of the list is packed with other tempting locations – perfect if you fancy turning a Sunday roast into a full weekend escape.
We’ve picked out a few highlights, along with nearby holiday stays so you can make a mini break out of your next pub lunch.
The Coombe Cellars, Devon
Set right on the banks of the River Teign, The Coombe Cellars is a natural finishing point for walkers exploring the surrounding countryside. Dog-friendly and open year-round, it’s perfectly placed for those following the riverside trails. The real standout, however, is the food. Its sharing roast for two is a showstopper – featuring prime cut sirloin of beef, half a rotisserie chicken, slow-cooked pork belly with crackling and all the trimmings.
If you’re travelling from further afield, there are plenty of places to stay nearby. This romantic retreat in Marldon near Totnes is a cosy option for couples, with handcrafted interiors and quirky, homely touches. Take a look here.
For something larger, this centrally located house on airbnb, sleeping four is ideal for a family getaway, offering a comfortable base to explore the area:
The Fox House, South Yorkshire
Perched on the edge of the Peak District within the former Longshaw Estate, The Fox House is surrounded by sweeping moorland and ancient woodland. After a long walk through the peaks, it’s the perfect place to settle in for a hearty, well-earned roast in a cosy, countryside setting. Part of the dog-friendly Innkeepers Collection, it’s an ideal choice for a relaxed weekend escape with your four-legged companion.
You can stay on-site with Innkeeper’s Collection, making it an easy, dog-friendly weekend escape:
Alternatively, this detached rural barn near High Peak offers a more secluded stay, complete with a wood burner and far-reaching countryside views:
The Spaniards Inn, London
London's Grade II listed Spaniards Inn on Hampstead Heath also makes the list, which dates back to 1585. It’s an ideal stop after an afternoon wandering the heath or exploring Hampstead’s historic streets. The sharing roast is a highlight here, featuring a portion of beef, roast chicken and lamb finished with crispy bacon, chestnut stuffing and red wine gravy.
Turn it into a city break by staying right on the heath in this stylish apartment, which features a private terrace and an unbeatable location:
Or base yourself elsewhere in the capital with this well-connected stay, ideal for exploring London over a few days:
The Castell Mynach, Cardiff
Just moments from the River Ely, The Castell Mynach is perfectly placed for walkers exploring Pontyclun’s scenic routes. Trails like the Groesfaen walk and nearby Llantrisant Forest offer plenty of opportunity to build up an appetite. Inside, the cosy setting and hearty menu deliver, with highlights including the pan-roasted lamb rump and rich root vegetable wellington.
Extend your countryside escape with a stay in this beautifully converted stone barn, offering modern comforts in a peaceful rural setting
Nuthatch Barn is rated an impressive 4.9 on Sykes Cottages and has every amenity you need for your stay.
Or opt for something with a little more character – this charming cottage features exposed beams, cosy eaves bedrooms and window seats perfect for unwinding after a day out
The Fish & Eels, Hertfordshire
Located in Hoddesdon along the Lee Navigation, The Fish & Eels is ideally positioned on a popular riverside trail through the Lee Valley. Whether you stop mid-walk or at the end, it’s a perfect place to refuel. Alongside classic Sunday roasts, the pub is particularly well known for its desserts – with favourites including the millionaire’s chocolate fondant and Bourbon apple tarte tatin, best enjoyed with a cask ale or a chilled glass of wine.
For a memorable stay, this unique “peak pod” offers a cosy riverside escape, sleeping up to four and placing you right in the heart of the surrounding countryside
Alternatively, Lee Valley Holiday Park is a great option for families, with on-site activities, a hot tub and easy access to walking routes
The holiday park is a popular choice for group getaways, earning a rating of 8.7 on Booking.com for stays with multiple people, alongside an impressive 8.9 for its location.
Planning a staycation?
Devon is best known for it's rolling countryside, rugged coastlines, timeless village charm and delicious cream teas. Popular with visitors from all over the world, Sykes Cottages has plenty of places to stay on the beautiful British Riviera, from £36 per night.
There's a one-of-a-kind holiday home in Devon, which was voted one of the most-wanted in the UK in 2025.
Holiday Cottages picked its top 10 properties. Securing fifth place is The Gun House, a truly unique property in Shaldon.
A former military guard tower overlooking the coast, this historic gem offers a truly one-of-a-kind stay. Its unique history and luxurious finish make it a must-book destination. It has even appeared on George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces.
There's also this large barn in Cadeleigh, Devon, which is great for big families. West Farleigh Barn sleeps eleven and has room for four dogs.
The barn features an extensive enclosed garden, equipped with a luxurious private hot tub, and even an outdoor shower.
Further features include a sheltered patio complete with a pool table, alongside access to communal leisure amenities such as a children's play area, badminton court and mini golf, creating a truly memorable retreat.
Across the border, Cornwall apartment No. 1 took the top spot for most-wanted holiday accommodation in the UK for 2025. The Bude apartment sleeps four and is flooded with natural light and luxury features, as well as its own private sauna.
If you're looking to visit Somerset, check out this gorgeous Pheasant Cottage on Sykes Cottages, which has recently undergone a complete rebuild to provide luxorious accommodation in a stunning setting. Or there's the Castle Hotel in Taunton on Booking.com, which has a stylish brasserie, luxurious bedrooms and leafy gardens.