A Mystical Architectural Marvel on Dartmoor
Nestled on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, the Highwayman Inn defies conventional pub expectations. More than a mere drinking establishment, it’s a living canvas of architectural wonder and historical mystique, inviting visitors into a realm where reality blends seamlessly with imagination.
A Fairy Tale Come to Life
From first glance, the inn captivates with its extraordinary Tudor-style exterior. Whimsical details dance across its facade – a nod to the “old lady who lived in a shoe,” a fairy tale pumpkin house, and a fire-breathing dragon transform this 11th-century building into a breathing work of art. Constructed from local wood and stone, with low-beamed ceilings, the inn whispers stories of bygone eras.
Rooms of Wonder and Supernatural Intrigue
The Locker Bar: A Maritime Mystery
Venture through a once-secret passageway past a Tutenkamun sarcophagus, and you’ll discover the Rita Jones’s Locker Bar. A gothic door from an 18th-century whaling boat, adorned with Diana, the Goddess of Hunting, guards a bar counter shaped like a sea-dragon – a sculpture of bog oak crafted by nature’s own hand.
Paranormal Encounters: Ghosts of the Highwayman
The pub’s reputation extends beyond its unique design. Visitors have reported supernatural encounters with:
- A burly sea captain
- Samuel, a flamboyant cavalier
- A provocative serving wench in a mop cap
- A mysterious green-clad man with a feathered hat, walking through walls
A Historical Tapestry
Samuel, the inn’s spectral resident, reportedly died at 36, connected to a historic battle between Roundheads and Cavaliers. An eight-year-old girl once claimed conversations with this oddly dressed apparition, adding layers to the pub’s mystical atmosphere.
More Than Just a Pub
Originally a coaching house, farm, and community hub, the Highwayman now stands as a landmark tourist attraction. Located in Sourton, on North Moor’s edge, it offers not just unique interiors but access to stunning walking routes and historical sites.
Visitor Experiences
Guests describe the Highwayman as “the most exotic pub in southwest England,” delighting in unique experiences like dining in a small tunnel and exploring rooms that seem to exist outside of time.
Practical Enchantments
The Highwayman offers:
- A diverse selection of ales, wines, and spirits
- Organic and biodynamic wine options
- Local cider
- Themed rooms like the Coach Cabin Lounge and Hideaway Bar
A Portal to Another World
With a 6-foot Minotaur named Asterion, hidden passages, and rooms that challenge temporal boundaries, the Highwayman Inn is more than a pub – it’s a portal where history, legend, and imagination converge.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, paranormal investigator, or adventure seeker, the Highwayman Inn promises an unforgettable journey beyond the ordinary.
