Notley Arms Inn Monksilver Exmoor National Park

The Notley Arms sits in Monksilver, a proper tiny village tucked into Exmoor's northern edge, about half an hour west of Taunton. It's the sort of pub where you actually want to stop - stone-built, traditional, the kind of place that feels like it's been serving pints to walkers and locals for centuries. Which it probably has.

There's nothing flashy about it, and that's entirely the point. You come here for a pint and a rest after a hike, or to park up en route somewhere else on Exmoor. The pub itself is the main draw - good ale, decent food, and the kind of atmosphere where conversation matters. The village around it is genuinely quiet, which means if you're after a break from seaside holiday park life, this works.

It's ideal for walkers exploring Exmoor's inland paths rather than the crowded coastal trails. Families will find it fine for lunch, though there's nothing to occupy kids for hours. The nearest holiday parks - Warren Bay, Haven Doniford Bay, and Hoburne Blue Anchor - are all within a few miles, making this a decent afternoon detour from a week of caravan or chalet life.

Go midweek if you can. Weekends bring the crowds, and it loses some charm. Allow an hour for a proper visit including food and a drink. There's no charge just to pop in, though you'll want to order something. Monksilver itself is worth a wander if the weather's decent, but honestly, the pub is why you'd come.