The Arundell Arms

'A lovely place. Immaculate yet friendly service'. Praise in 2009 for this sporting hotel which is now run by Adam Fox-Edwards, the son of Anne Voss-Bark, whose passion for fishing inspired it for nearly half a century. Guests continue to sing its praises. 'Outstanding staff, food and atmosphere.' Bedrooms are 'very comfortable'; the best are in a rear extension (front ones face a road). All have flat-screen TV, a modern bathroom. There are 'antique dressers, desks and chairs; pictures of country pursuits'. Dogs are welcomed, as are children: this 'adds to the unstuffy atmosphere' in the lounge, which has slate floors, rugs, large, comfortable sofas and chairs. Chef Steven Pidgeon's cooking is admired: 'A sumptuous meal with leek, potato and bacon soup; medallions of wild venison with rösti. Coffee and truffles beside the log fire, a perfect way to end a day on snow-clad Dartmoor.' Breakfast 'reflected the high standard of the evening; poached eggs and bacon as perfect as can be'. Fisherfolk come for the 20 miles of fishing on the Tamar, its six tributaries, and a three-acre stocked lake; courses offer instruction at all levels. Non-sporting visitors are equally welcomed. (Trevor Lockwood, Graham and Barbara Stradling, Max Lickfold)