The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon - South Zeal

12th-century inn with a 5000-year-old standing stone and AA Rosette dining in Devon

History and Unique Heritage

The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon South Zeal is built around the South Zeal Menhir Standing Stone, a 5000-year-old monolith incorporated into the structure. The building began as a 12th-century Benedictine monastery and later became a manor house, with a 14th-century pirate once in residence. The bar, first licensed in 1477, has hosted Charles Dickens for a month and is one of the oldest inn bars in England.

Dining

The AA Rosette-awarded restaurant offers seasonal lunches, evening meals, and bar food prepared with high-quality local produce. Guests can enjoy views of Dartmoor from the dining room and choose from a menu that includes quality dietary options and gluten-free beers. The Oxenham Arms also offers a Sunday roast and a cheese board that reviewers frequently praise.

Accommodations

Rooms at the Oxenham Arms Hotel retain original wooden beams and stone walls, with antique furnishings and en-suite bathrooms. Options include superking four-poster bedrooms, such as the room where Charles Dickens stayed, and the Bovey room which has a menhir behind the wardrobe. Each room is individually decorated and offers views of the village or Dartmoor.

Location and Activities

Situated in South Zeal on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, the Oxenham Arms provides in-house walking guides for exploring the moors and local attractions. Guests can use free bicycles, join walking tours, or hike directly from the hotel to nearby trails and the South Zeal Menhir. The garden features a 5000-year-old standing stone and offers views of Cosdon Hill, with car hire available on site.

Amenities and Policies

The hotel welcomes dogs in public areas and offers a minimarket on site, luggage storage, and a chapel/shrine within the building. Free parking is available on site, along with a shuttle service and airport transfers for an additional charge. The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon also provides packed lunches and special diet menus on request.

• History: Built around a 5000-year-old standing stone and 12th-century monastery
• Dining: AA Rosette-awarded restaurant with local produce and gluten-free options
• Rooms: Superking four-poster bedrooms with original beams and stone walls
• Location: Edge of Dartmoor National Park with in-house walking guides
• Activities: Free bicycles, walking tours, and car hire on site
• Bar: 536-year-old bar first licensed in 1477
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs welcomed in public areas