Blagdon Manor

'We never cease to be amazed by the quality of Steve's cooking - deserving of a Michelin star. Every visit is a joy.' 'They keep their high standards year after year without appearing harassed.' Fresh praise for Liz and Steve Morey's rambling, 17th-century manor house (Grade II listed), in rolling countryside with panoramic views towards Dartmoor. 'No noise, no traffic, only ducks and tame pheasants demanding food.' 'Furnished traditionally', it is run in a 'friendly, easy manner', said an earlier visitor. 'Our comfortable room had some surprises - a box of home-made chocolates, complimentary sherry.' Fresh flowers and open fires are in the bar and lounge. Books, ornaments and striped fabrics abound. In the bright dining room, the menu offers six choices each of starter, main course and dessert. Ingredients are locally sourced, often from the Moreys' garden, and imaginatively transformed. 'A most wonderful dish, with lamb cooked in four different ways, the most exquisite being shoulder stuffed with haggis.' The Cornish slate terrace outside the conservatory allows alfresco dining. The 'delightful' Moreys have two 'gorgeous' chocolate Labradors, and guests' dogs 'are positively welcomed'. (John and Ann Smith, B Emberson, GC)