Devon’s Best Brunch Spots
From artisan bakeries and garden pubs to coastal cafés and lively market towns, Devon has an exceptional brunch scene if you know where to look. This curated guide brings together some of our favourite late breakfasts within an easy drive of Moorland View – excellent places we return to time and again.
Slow mornings are part of the rhythm of a Dartmoor escape – especially when you’re staying somewhere designed for switching off properly. One of the pleasures of a romantic break at Moorland View is knowing where to go for a great brunch without queues, guesswork or tourist traps.
These are a few of our favourite cafés for unhurried Devon mornings, all within easy reach of the cottage. They’re places we return to ourselves – relaxed, welcoming spots where good food sets the tone for the day ahead, whether you’re heading out for a moorland walk or lingering over a second coffee.
For more of our favourite places to eat and drink locally, our main guide offers an overview.
Hippo, Moretonhampstead
Hippo is the creation of Ione and her daughter Birdie, shaped by Ione’s background as an artist and naturopathic nutritional therapist. Rooted in nutrition science and a belief in food as something both nourishing and therapeutic, Hippo champions a gentler, more considered approach to eating. The kitchen is led by Claudia Guedelha Cardao, whose cross-cultural background and Ashburton Cookery School training bring warmth, creativity and confidence to the plate. Food, art and community sit comfortably side by side here, making Hippo a relaxed and thoughtful stop for brunch in Moretonhampstead.
The Birdcage, Chagford
A bright, bird-themed café on Chagford’s main square, The Birdcage is a long-standing local favourite for relaxed brunches in a friendly, cosy setting. Expect classics done well – a full English, bacon and egg muffin, or smoked salmon with poached eggs and avocado salsa. Tables outside catch the morning sun, making this a particularly lovely stop on quieter weekdays. Closing times vary - check their website.
The Old Forge, Chagford
Right in the centre of town, The Old Forge keeps things simple and satisfying with an all-day breakfast menu that rarely disappoints. Choices include a proper full English, French toast with streaky bacon and fried egg, and smoked salmon with scrambled eggs and grilled croissant. Unfussy, welcoming, and reliably good.
The Old Library, Ashburton
Run by two inventive chefs, The Old Library offers one of Devon’s most distinctive brunch menus. Dishes lean creative rather than traditional – think slow-roasted meatballs in spicy tomato sauce on a bagel, or sweetcorn fritters with chilli, herbs and a perfectly poached egg. A brilliant choice if you want something memorable rather than predictable.
The Almond Thief, Dartington
Best known for its exceptional sourdough, The Almond Thief has expanded into café breakfasts with quietly impressive results. Menus change weekly, but often feature locally sourced eggs, seasonal vegetables and beautifully cured meats, all served on that signature bread. Coffee is excellent too – a serious stop for food lovers.
The Curator, Totnes
With a devoted following among Devon’s coffee crowd, The Curator pairs superb espresso with an all-day brunch menu. Poached eggs come with options like crispy prosciutto, house sausage or roasted peppers and avocado, while the Italian BLT on freshly made focaccia is a house favourite. Casual, buzzy, and consistently good.
Alf Resco’s, Dartmouth
A Dartmouth institution, Alf Resco’s champions fresh, local produce, with warm pastries delivered daily from nearby bakeries. The Classic Alf’s Breakfast is a benchmark full English, while the house granola is a lighter but satisfying alternative. Bloody Marys and champagne are served from early morning for those in celebratory (or recovery) mode.
Venus Beach Café, Blackpool Sands
Set right on the sand at Blackpool Sands, Venus Beach Cafe is perfect for an early coastal start. The Sunrise Breakfast – served between 8–9am – includes bircher muesli, a full cooked breakfast, organic coffee and sourdough toast. Eggs Benedict is a strong lighter option.
Forest Fungi, Dawlish
The canteen at Forest Fungi showcases ingredients grown just outside the door, with seasonal produce and farm-grown mushrooms often taking centre stage. Breakfast covers all the essentials, but don’t miss the coffee – it’s exceptional and very much part of the experience.
Want the insider version?
For guests staying at Moorland View, we privately share little known gems and walk-pairing tips – so brunch becomes the start of a great day out.
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