We all need a little time out occasionally, so it was that I found myself on the road to Instow, in beautiful North Devon for a few days down time. TRUFFLEicious mini break had begun.
Now, I didn’t stumble across my chosen venue by meandering the highways & byways of Devon, but on that well know site booking.com, of which I am not a fan. Each time I have used them they have got something wrong.
Anyway, I digress. Searching for dog friendly accommodation in Devon with twin beds – although my ex husband was accompaning me, sharing a bed is not something we have contemplated for many a year – I was given the choice of three suitable venues, within my budget.
The The Wayfarer Inn nestles on a narrow side street, just off the beach at Instow. Parking was difficult as it is restricted to two hour slots during the summer. However there is a car park a short walk away. We arrived about 7.30pm, unloaded and were lucky enough to find a space opposite where I could abandon my vehicle until 9am the next day.
My first impression on entering the establishment was furry friends. St Bernards. German Shepherd & a Greyhound – the later of which turned out to be mine hosts – & a gathering of people which I took to be locals.
Greeted by a cheerful, smiling girl, I was shown to our room, on the top floor.
A large airy, twin room faced me, with a view of the estuary, bathroom with fantastic power shower & equipped for the heat wave we are experiencing, with a large column fan. I was home, my time out had begun.
Time was marching on, the sun was well over the yard arm, I needed a well earned evening tipple.
Now, I don’t know what takes your fancy? But I am a Gin girl, boy, had I struck lucky, this place was a Gin heaven. On ordering a Bombay Sapphire & tonic, I was informed that I should “try the Pink Gin with a slice of orange” Mine host obviously spotted a succour & I was hooked.
Gypsy, my faithful hound was also in her element, new smells & doggy friends were abounding. We decided to mosey outside & let her inspect the beer garden. A pleasant large open garden area, with plenty of seating, an outside bar & large screen TV – think football – greeted us. I must say, I was a bit concerned about the artificial grass, which covered the ground, would Gypsy think this was a carpet or grass? The later proved to be the case, as she promptly decided to do her business there & then.
After a comfortable nights sleep in our quiet room, a run along the beach, with the dog & a morning blast in the power shower, we were ready for breakfast.
Now, I am not a breaky person & certainly did not want cereal & orange juice followed by the delicious looking huge full English, with toast on the side, that was proffered. I was more than happy with my choice of scrambled eggs & two large grilled, fresh tomatoes. Service was speedy & the serving wench, cheerful & friendly.
The Wayfarer Inn at Instow, is well placed for a touring holiday of Devon. We chose to spend our day on Westward Ho beach. A great place for surfers & sunbathers alike. The hound & I spent happy hours jumping the waves, but, whatever takes your fancy. Also in easy reach is the quaint cobbled village of Clovelly & if its gardens you are after, Tapley Court is but a stones throw away.
Returning to our accommodation for the evenings repast. We encountered a bar full of early Friday evening revellers, & I must say, the natives are a very friendly, fun loving bunch. We got rather carried away in the spirit – Gin Cocktails – of things.
As well as good management, a great bar person is always an asset to any Pub & Helen, barmaid of the night was fantastic, not only did she provide excellent service, she was the cabaret act for the evening too. Long time since I have laughed ’till I cried.
All that’s left to say is THANK YOU to all at the Wayfarer Inn, you are highly recommended. We will be back. Meanwhile:
Truffleicious blog 
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