Notley Arms Inn Monksilver Exmoor National Park

Tucked away in the sleepy village of Monksilver, right in the heart of Exmoor National Park, you’ll find the Notley Arms Inn. It’s the kind of place that feels like a secret, even though it’s been here for centuries. Ever stumbled upon a pub that looks like it just stepped out of a fairy tale?

A Pint-Sized Time Machine

Walking into the Notley Arms is like opening a rustic treasure chest. The low ceilings, crackling fireplace, and worn stone floors instantly dial down the stress of modern life. You half expect a highwayman to walk in and order a pint.

But here’s the twist: it’s not a dusty museum piece. The vibe is refreshingly relaxed, with a quiet hum of locals and adventurers swapping stories. It’s that rare mix—old-school charm without any of the stuffiness.

Why Monksilver?

Monksilver itself is tiny—think a postcard village with a few houses, a church, and this inn. You won’t find a big supermarket or a neon sign here, and that’s exactly the point. It’s the perfect base camp for getting lost in Exmoor’s wild beauty.

Why rush around when you can just park yourself at the Notley Arms? The surrounding hills look like they were painted by a very happy artist who loved rolling green slopes and moody skies.

Food That Hugs You Back

Let’s talk about the food, because this isn’t your average pub grub. The kitchen focuses on local ingredients, turning them into dishes that feel both hearty and clever. Imagine a classic fish pie that’s so creamy it practically sings, or a steak and ale pie that could fix a bad day in one bite.

The best part? You can eat it without feeling like you’re at a fancy restaurant. The plates are generous, the prices are fair, and the staff treat you like an old friend. Ever had a Sunday roast that made you want to move to the countryside? This might be the one.

The Exmoor Effect

After lunch, you can step outside and immediately be on a footpath leading into the national park. Exmoor is famous for its wild ponies, dramatic coastlines, and deep valleys—it’s like a playground for your inner child. You can hike for hours and see more sheep than people.

Or, you can do something even better: grab a drink from the bar, find a bench in the garden, and just watch the light change over the hills. The sky here is massive, like a giant canvas that repaints itself every hour.

Sleep In, Hike Harder

The Notley Arms also has rooms upstairs, and they’re exactly what you’d hope for: cozy, quiet, and full of character. Think chunky beams, crisp white sheets, and a bathroom with a shower that actually has good water pressure. After a long walk, that’s a small luxury that feels enormous.

You’ll wake up to birdsong and the smell of bacon. There’s no TV blaring or traffic hum—just peace. It’s the kind of sleep that resets your entire brain.

For the Non-Hikers

Not into stomping across muddy fields? No problem. Exmoor is also about slow adventures. You can drive to nearby Dunster Castle, wander through ancient woodlands, or just sit in the pub and watch the world go by. The Notley Arms is extremely good at being a place to simply exist.

Bring a book. Bring a friend. Or bring nothing but your appetite for a quiet afternoon. The atmosphere is so easygoing that you’ll quickly forget what day it is.

A Final, Friendly Comparison

If you’ve ever watched a British countryside drama and thought, “I’d love to be there,” this is your ticket. The Notley Arms is like the friendlier cousin of those TV pubs—the one who actually pours your pint with a smile and remembers your name.

It’s not trying to be trendy or flashy. It’s just really good at being a proper, welcoming inn in one of England’s most beautiful spots. And honestly? In a world of constant noise, that’s exactly what we all need sometimes.

So, next time you’re craving a break from the ordinary, point your car toward Monksilver. The Notley Arms is waiting, the fire is lit, and your pint is calling.