The Horn of Plenty is a peaceful 19th-century country manor hotel, built in 1866 for the Mine Captain James Richards. Surrounded by green fields and with dreamy views across the Tamar Valley, it offers pretty gardens - where afternoon tea is served in the summer - local seasonal cuisine and elegant period features; think wooden floors, high ceilings and picture windows. Dotted chimneys still visible from the patio are a reminder of its copper and tin mining past, but the traditional charm has been updated with contemporary style to create a much-loved rural Devon getaway.
It's wonderful to be so close to Dartmoor, with the nearest tors just 10 minutes away, as well as being able to explore both the north and south Devon coasts, both within an hour's drive.
The Horn of Plenty is on the border between Devon and Cornwall, overlooking the Tamar Valley, five minutes' drive from Tavistock.
By car: the hotel is 1 hour from Exeter, 2 hours 20 mins from Bristol and around 4 hours from London. There is free parking on-site.
By train: London Paddington to Gunnislake (via Plymouth) takes around 4 hours. The hotel is a 5-minute taxi ride from the station. thetrainline.com
For a special getaway, you'd be hard pushed to find a more idyllic location - it's perfect for a romantic break, celebration or small gathering. We love the mix of homely warmth, bold colours and show-stealing countryside views.
It's a pure joy to sit under the pergola in the pretty gardens, watching the low mist unravel across the hilltops. There are 12 dog-friendly rooms where your four-legged friend will find a water bowl, treats and poo bags on arrival. A doggie dinner is provided as a welcome treat on your first night. Dogs aren't permitted to join guests in the restaurant, but a table can be set up for you to dine together in the library.
- Restaurant
- Library
- Lounge
- Terrace
- Gardens
- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
The first floor Best Coach House room won us over with its huge bi-folding doors opening onto a large balcony, with views across the walled garden and surrounding moorland. It's hard not to fall for floor-to-ceiling vistas of the vast sweep of the Tamar Valley.
Cosy, Classic, Deluxe, Best
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom, mini bar, tea and coffee facilities, fresh milk, luxury bathrobes, bottled water, hairdryer, TV, free Wi-Fi
Visiting over the festive season, it's hard to resist turkey stuffed with cranberry and chestnuts, served with gratin dauphinoise potato and all the trimmings. Seared king scallops, spiced cauliflower veloute and curried oil is also a winning combo, washed down with a local gin for a true taste of the South West.
The restaurant: 2 AA Rosettes, modern British fine dining, seasonal ingredients, local produce. Open every day for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Two-course lunch £21, three courses £26. Three-course dinner £42.50, six-course tasting menu £70.
To view Booking.com’s supplier’s terms and conditions click here.