The Grove Inn

The story

The Grove Inn, Kings Nympton | Award Winning Modern British Pub

The kitchen and the team

Robert Smallbone and Deborah have guided The Grove Inn in Kings Nympton since early 2003, building a steady reputation for straightforward Modern British cooking in the area. The kitchen operates on a field-to-shore principle, preparing most items from scratch and adapting daily specials around weather patterns and seasonal deliveries. This hands-on management style treats every guest like a familiar visitor, allowing the staff to accommodate dietary needs while maintaining a strict focus on fresh produce and locally sourced proteins.

Signature plates and seasonal highlights

Diners consistently return for the warm Scotch eggs served with soft yolks and a crisp crust alongside an individually portioned beef Wellington accompanied by dauphinoise potatoes. The menu reflects the wider county through refined Modern British plates, featuring a wild venison burger paired with tangy Taw Valley Cheddar and a starter of breaded small fry dressed in garlic mayonnaise. Sweet finishes lean toward substantial traditions, including a chocolate and Devon stout steamed pudding and a shared burnt cream made with blackcurrants harvested directly from the village gardens.

The space and cellar selections

The Grade II-listed interior features low ceilings, exposed oak beams, and a flagstone floor anchored by a large open fireplace. Walls carry decades of accumulated ceramics, paintings, and local memorabilia, creating a grounded setting that matches the pub two-decade tenure in the community. Beverage selections emphasize regional producers, with tap lines dedicated to West Country real ales, real Devon ciders, and a curated collection of single malts. Wines are organized by character rather than region, and the venue earned North Devon CAMRA Branch Cider Pub of the Year in 2022. This dedication to quality ingredients and consistent execution recently secured a Good Food Guide listing.