
Lustleigh Cleave
A storybook village and ancient woodlands in Dartmoor National Park, offering charming cottages and scenic hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and birdsong abound

Lustleigh Cleave
Best Time
Blossoms and birdsong abound
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A storybook village and ancient woodlands in Dartmoor National Park, offering charming cottages and scenic hikes.
"Fantastic pub with huge roasts and stunning location; a must-visit in Lustleigh!"

Book Pub Tables Early
The Cleave pub is popular, especially for Sunday lunch. Booking ahead is highly recommended! ๐๏ธ
Wear Sturdy Walking Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is essential for exploring Lustleigh Cleave. :athletic_shoe:

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 ยท 603 reviews
Type
Pub
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lustleigh Village
Lustleigh
A storybook village with thatched cottages, flower-filled gardens, and a traditional green. Pure English charm.

Lustleigh Cleave Trails
Dartmoor National Park
Explore ancient woodlands and scenic river valleys. Perfect for a refreshing hike with breathtaking views.

The Cleave Pub
Lustleigh
A highly-rated country pub known for its delicious Sunday roasts and homemade burgers. Dog-friendly too!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dartmoor Charm
Walks and Wildlife Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Pub Tables Early
The Cleave pub is popular, especially for Sunday lunch. Booking ahead is highly recommended! ๐๏ธ
Wear Sturdy Walking Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is essential for exploring Lustleigh Cleave. :athletic_shoe:
Check Pub Service Style
Some visitors note a 'shouty' bar staff experience, while others praise friendly service. Be prepared for varied service styles. ๐
Capture Cottage Charm
Lustleigh village is incredibly picturesque. Have your camera ready for those postcard-perfect thatched roofs! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Pub Tables Early
The Cleave pub is popular, especially for Sunday lunch. Booking ahead is highly recommended! ๐๏ธ
Wear Sturdy Walking Shoes
Trails can be uneven. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is essential for exploring Lustleigh Cleave. :athletic_shoe:
Check Pub Service Style
Some visitors note a 'shouty' bar staff experience, while others praise friendly service. Be prepared for varied service styles. ๐
Capture Cottage Charm
Lustleigh village is incredibly picturesque. Have your camera ready for those postcard-perfect thatched roofs! :camerawithflash:
Dog-Friendly Destination
Many visitors appreciate that The Cleave pub welcomes dogs, making it a great stop after a walk. ๐
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lustleigh Cleave for its idyllic village charm and beautiful natural landscapes, with The Cleave pub receiving high marks for its delicious food, particularly Sunday roasts and burgers. While the pub's service can be inconsistent, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the picturesque setting and hearty meals.
"Fantastic pub. We'd booked as it was the closest to our holiday house for the weekend.
Service was flawless - arrived early for our booking which was accommodated without issue.
Very friendly service from a gentleman who came out to check everything was good.
Huge roasts, very high quality, both meat and veggie options went down well, served within 20 minutes of ordering.
The location is stunning, garden very nice on a sunny day. No complaints!"
Ben Snodin
"Probably one of the best homemade pub burgers Iโve had. Very juicy and tender. It also tasted fresh. The chef Rob was great. Delicious Provence Rose by the glass. Lovely friendly staff."
Richard Dale
"Excellent and lovely service from Dan, Jack and Pippa. Such a pretty pub. Thank you.
Came again 8/5/25 and Fish and chips were so fresh, crispy and perfect!"
Alex Way
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
๐ ๐บ๏ธ Getting There
Lustleigh Cleave is located near the village of Lustleigh in Dartmoor National Park, Devon. The nearest major town is Newton Abbot. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the area, with parking available near the village and trailheads. Public transport options are limited; local bus services may connect to Lustleigh, but check schedules carefully.
Public transport to Lustleigh is limited. While buses may serve the village, it's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance as services can be infrequent. Many visitors opt to drive to fully explore Dartmoor and its surrounding areas.
Parking is available in Lustleigh village, which serves as a good starting point for walks into Lustleigh Cleave. There may also be smaller parking areas along the minor roads leading into the Cleave itself. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
For navigating Dartmoor, a good Ordnance Survey map and compass are recommended, especially for longer hikes. Mobile phone signal can be unreliable. Many visitors use GPS devices or apps, but always have a backup plan.
While there are bridleways and some tracks, Lustleigh Cleave is primarily known for its walking trails. Cycling may be possible on designated routes, but be aware of the terrain and potential restrictions.
๐ซ ๐ซ Tickets & Entry
Lustleigh Cleave is part of Dartmoor National Park and is generally free to access for walking and exploring. There are no entrance fees for the natural landscape itself.
As a natural landscape, Lustleigh Cleave does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible at all times, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, there is no entry fee to visit the charming village of Lustleigh. You can wander through its streets and admire the cottages freely.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book a table at The Cleave pub, especially for Sunday lunch or during peak times, as it is a very popular local establishment.
Generally, no specific permits are required for day hiking in Lustleigh Cleave. However, always check for any local by-laws or temporary restrictions within Dartmoor National Park.
๐ซ ๐๏ธ Onsite Experience
Lustleigh Cleave offers various trails, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging woodland paths. A popular route follows the River Bovey, offering beautiful scenery and opportunities to explore the ancient woods.
Yes, some parts of Lustleigh Cleave are suitable for families with young children, particularly the flatter riverside paths. However, some areas can be steep or uneven, so always supervise children closely.
You can expect to see a variety of woodland birds, and if you're lucky, you might spot deer or other small mammals. The river is home to aquatic life. The sound of birds is a highlight for many visitors.
Facilities within Lustleigh Cleave itself are minimal, as it's a natural area. Toilets and cafes are typically found in Lustleigh village or at nearby visitor centers. The Cleave pub is a good place to stop for refreshments.
Wander through the village, admire the thatched cottages and their gardens, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Visiting The Cleave pub is also a quintessential village experience.
๐ฝ๏ธ ๐ฝ๏ธ Food & Dining
The main dining option in Lustleigh is The Cleave pub, renowned for its excellent Sunday lunches, homemade burgers, and fresh fish and chips. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
The Cleave pub offers traditional pub fare, including hearty Sunday roasts with generous portions, juicy homemade burgers, and crispy fish and chips. They also have vegetarian options and a selection of drinks.
Yes, The Cleave pub is dog-friendly, making it a perfect stop for a meal or drink after a walk with your canine companion in Lustleigh Cleave. ๐
Reviews suggest that The Cleave pub offers great value for money, particularly for its Sunday lunches, with hefty portion sizes. Prices are generally considered reasonable for the quality and quantity of food.
The Cleave pub offers vegetarian options, and while not explicitly stated for vegan, it's worth inquiring directly about their current menu for vegan choices.
๐ธ ๐ธ Photography
Capture the ancient woodlands, the winding River Bovey, and the scenic valley views. The light filtering through the trees can create magical shots.
The iconic thatched cottages with their colorful gardens are the stars of Lustleigh village. Look for charming details like stone walls and flower-filled window boxes.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use in Lustleigh Cleave or the village. However, always be respectful of private property and residents.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both landscapes and village details. A wide-angle lens can be great for expansive views, and a prime lens can be good for village close-ups.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit