Hop on the train to Okehampton, then explore the Granite Way to Lydford and treat yourself to a cosy pub lunch along the way – including at “Britain’s most unusual inn”.
What is the Granite Way?
The Granite Way is an 11-mile multi-use trail starting at Okehampton station. It crosses the towering Meldon Viaduct – with great panoramic views – en route to the picturesque village of Lydford. There’s a wealth of great pubs along the trail.
Explore by bike
Bikes are permitted on Dartmoor Line trains but please note that spaces are limited and are on a first-come-first-served basis. (If travelling on the main line, bike spaces must be pre-booked.)
Alternatively, hire bikes and e-bikes directly opposite Okehampton station (over the footbridge). Top tip – hire a lock too, so you can chain up your bike when you stop at the pubs.
Go by onward bus
Don’t fancy cycling? Visit each of the pubs on the 118 bus from right outside Okehampton station. Buses are conveniently timed with arriving and departing trains every other hour. They stop at (or very close to) each pub.
The pubs
The pubs are all very popular, so booking is advised. Please use the telephone numbers and links below for their most up-to-date opening times and further information.
Described as “the most unusual pub in Britain”, this allegedly haunted 11th-century inn is filled with eclectic artefacts and curiosities – it’s a real experience (remember to say hi to the sarcophagus!).
Website | Tel: 01837 861243 | 4.7 miles from Okehampton station | 13min on 118 bus (plus 3min walk)
A dog-friendly, thatched pub, nestled in the beautiful North West corner of Dartmoor National Park. Having lived in Dartmoor for over 10 years, the owners understand the importance of a fine country pub, serving fresh local produce.
Website | Tel: 01837 861 334 | 6.1 miles from Okehampton station | 15min on 118 bus (plus 2min walk)
Run by the same family for more than 50 years, the Fox and Hound have two bars and a restaurant serving modern cuisine and British classics, using locally sourced produce.
Website | Tel: 01822 820 206 | 7.1 miles from Okehampton station | 17min on 118 bus
A 16th century inn with oak-beams, slate-floors and a contemporary bar. They adapt the menu depending on what their local producers have in season – so there’s always something new and delicious to try.
Website | Tel: 01822 820221 | 8 miles from Okehampton station | 19min on 118 bus (plus 1min walk)
The Castle Inn is a quintessential 16th century inn, resting on the fringes of Dartmoor National Park, with low ceilings, wonky walls, open fires and character in abundance. The pub is situated in the quiet, charming village of Lydford.
Website | Tel: 01822 820242 | 8.7 miles from Okehampton station | 21min on 118 bus
Also on the Granite Way is The Pump & Pedal, a “bikeshop / pub / cafe” which has beers and ciders on draught and a lovely beer garden with an outside bar. It’s open 10am – 5pm every day. It also offers cycle repair. 3.9 miles from Okehampton station. Find out more.
A little further on, Devon Cycle Hire also has a cafe.
More to explore in Lydford
Right next door to the Castle Inn, explore Lydford Castle. Or take the 5min walk to Lydford Gorge.
. Other pubs to visit by train
Okehampton town centre has a range of pubs to explore, or take the scenic walk from the station to Belstone (directions) to the Tors Inn (pictured above) with its amazing Dartmoor views.
Further afield, check out our Rail Ale Trails on Devon and Cornwall’s other branch lines.
Train times and tickets
Look up train times and buy tickets on the GWR website or GWR app.
The journey from Exeter to Okehampton takes approximately 40 minutes, with trains running every two hours. The Anytime Day Return fare is £8.40.
Top tip – get a Devon & Cornwall Railcard (just £12 a year and now available online) to save a third on the above fare for you and a friend. You can also bring up to four children for just £1 each.
Walks from the railway
Rail Ale Trails
Beaches by train
Arts & culture
Book Trail
Vinyl Trail
Times and prices
Parking and public transport
Travelling with kids
Taking bikes
Travelling with dogs
Assisted travel
