Barrel of Beer — Restaurant in East Devon

This was my first visit to this lovely village, and after a good walk and explore I was ready for a little refreshment.

This is a traditional pub which serves food as well. I didn't see anyone eating, but it was mid afternoon so not a surprise. A good range of local ales covering the primary staples of pale, bitter, and a strong ale. The ale was good, suggesting appropriate attention to cellar management.

The staff were welcoming and helpful, looking after us wonderfully.

The tables were set out in a spacious manner, meaning you don't feel hemmed in, and music was at an ambient volume encouraging social discourse.

Being what I suspect is something of a tourist spot, they have put effort into branding, with t shirts which we obviously had to buy (good quality as well, which was comforting!)

All in all, I was really happy here, and it will be top of my list for a repeat visit of I'm in the area again.

On the important topic of the zombie apocalypse, I think this place could truly be a Winchester. While there are no visible firearms I could see, the smaller windows make for a very sensible location that could allow you to fortify a safe place to sit out the days to come, with the comfort of a stockpile of...

From the moment you step into Barrel of Beer, you know you’re in for something special. This isn’t just your average pub—it’s a full-blown experience that blends warm atmosphere, top-tier food, and the kind of beer selection that makes you want to stay a while.

Let’s talk about the food: Chef Adam is nothing short of a culinary wizard. Every dish that leaves his kitchen is a work of art—thoughtfully crafted, perfectly seasoned, and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a hearty classic or something more refined, he brings serious passion to the plate. You can taste the love and attention in every bite.

And then there’s the crown jewel—Clarkson’s beer on tap. What a treat! It’s crisp, full-bodied, and ridiculously easy to drink. Having it on draft here feels like a rare privilege—like you’ve discovered the best-kept secret in town. It pairs beautifully with the menu, and honestly, it’s worth the visit all on its own.

Barrel of Beer isn’t just a place to eat or drink—it’s a place to savor, unwind, and enjoy. Between the phenomenal food, the incredible beer, and the welcoming vibe, this spot is an absolute standout. Can’t wait to come...

I regret I didn’t read reviews published for this ‘gastro’ pub before booking as I might have picked up on the many negative points raised re the attitude of the owner/manager. What was meant to be a relaxed evening spent with friends turned into an unpleasant fiasco more akin to a sit-com. Fawlty Towers comes to mind! We politely raised a query regarding the ridiculously miniscule portion served as a main course dish as we thought it was a starter serving made in error. The response from the owner / manager was at first dismissive and then became aggressive. His unpleasant outburst of temper was utterly unnecessary and offensive. Never in all my years of dining out have i been met with such hostility and rudeness. Needless to say, i will not be going back. I would not recommend...