Instow Arms
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Instow Arms

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A homely, modern pub-restaurant with stunning estuary views, known for hearty mains and a welcoming atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Instow Arms

Instow Arms

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A homely, modern pub-restaurant with stunning estuary views, known for hearty mains and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"This is an absolute gem of a place. Great food, great service and a great atmosphere."

TIP

Book in advance

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer, to secure a table.

Outdoor seating recommended

Opt for outdoor seating to fully enjoy the fabulous beach and estuary views.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Saturday 10AM

Cuisine

Pub / British

Price

Mid-range

Phone

+44 1271 860608

Address

Hatton Croft, Marine Parade, Instow, Bideford EX39 4JJ, United Kingdom

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Estuary Views

Stunning Estuary Views

Dine with breathtaking views of the estuary, especially vibrant during sunset. Perfect for a memorable occasion.

Pubs and Restaurants | Places to Eat OutGoogle Review+2
Generous Seafood Platters

Generous Seafood Platters

Indulge in abundant seafood platters that are praised for their quality and quantity, offering great value.

Pubs and inns for food lovers in DevonGoogle Review+2
Dog-Friendly Beachside Gem

Dog-Friendly Beachside Gem

A warm welcome awaits your furry friends in this pub, conveniently located near a dog-friendly beach and Tarka Trail.

The best pubs in Devon for a well-earned pintThe best pubs in DevonTop restaurants in North Devon+1
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Possibly my favourite ever UK holiday. Last year went to Instow in Devon … and we had the most perfect time. Gorgeous beaches perfect for dogs Incredible food … instow arms, the boat house and the glorious lobster We took a boat trip over to appledore Hired bikes locally; and rode along the tarka trail to Barnstaple Took the paddle board out for a spin on the sea And ventured out to Westwood h...
@athomewiththepritchards
21 likes • 1.2K views

Book in advance

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer, to secure a table.

Outdoor seating recommended

Opt for outdoor seating to fully enjoy the fabulous beach and estuary views.

#instowarms #instownorthdevon
@instow.arms
10 likes • 381 views
Ah amazing walk, sooouch to see. Popped in to instow restaurant, theyve even packed my mushy peas with me and ketchup and tatar sauce and curry sause hehe for just in case i guess. Fish was delicious 🥰 #fishandchips #bideford #lenatruckeryoutube #lenatruckerfitness #pint #fishandchips #seaboard #coastal #seashore #seaside #sea #beach #nature #summer #photography #travel #landscape #beachlife #sky...
@lena.trucker
15 likes • 496 views

Avoid peak times

Visit during off-peak hours to potentially avoid service delays and ensure a smoother dining experience.

Try unique options

Consider adventurous choices like non-alcoholic Guinness or swapping fries for garlic bread.

#localbusiness #summer #instowarmsfreehouse #sunnyday #coffee #coffeetiktok #beach
@instow.arms
7 likes • 866 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book in advance

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer, to secure a table.

Outdoor seating recommended

Opt for outdoor seating to fully enjoy the fabulous beach and estuary views.

Avoid peak times

Visit during off-peak hours to potentially avoid service delays and ensure a smoother dining experience.

Try unique options

Consider adventurous choices like non-alcoholic Guinness or swapping fries for garlic bread.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Instow Arms is celebrated for its stunning estuary views and generous, high-quality seafood platters, making it a top choice for celebrations. While many praise the friendly service and cozy atmosphere, some diners have experienced inconsistency in breakfast quality and longer wait times during busy periods. The pub's dog-friendly nature and proximity to the beach also contribute to its popularity.

"This is an absolute gem of a place. Great food, great service and a great atmosphere. We came here by chance after needing somewhere for tea and I’m so glad we did! The kids really enjoyed their meals, fresh and perfectly sized for little appetites. The wife and I had the seafood platter and it was enough to feed an army! At £36 it was a bargain, could easily see that at £75 in the city. Would definitely recommend stopping by."

Nick Bennett

"Never been to this pub before, very nice, we sat upstairs.... Great view👀 I had a burger and fries and a portion of onion rings whilst my wife and kids shared a seafood platter.... The waitress did say its massive.... She wasn't joking 😳 very nice all round"

Derek Gibson

"Compared to the food in the Boathouse next door this is the ritz for food .
I'll attach photos taken 2 days apart .
The boathouse mussels are the size of cockles and the instow arms are like full plump
Mussels shoukd be .

The boathouse are buying lower grade fish and mussels and charging top money for utter rubbish.
Both mussels came from the river Ex .

Please try THE INSTOW ARMS , the menue was vast .
All sides included .
It's busy so you need to book .

The chocolate fondue was put on the table first us to share and was absolutely amazing.

Thankyou so much to the excellent chef and staff .
Great night had by us all ."

linda phillips keep

What People Like

Stunning sea views
Abundant seafood platters
Friendly and attentive staff

What People Dislike

Inconsistent food quality (breakfast)
Occasional slow service
Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the Instow Arms is very dog-friendly, especially on the ground floor, and is located near a dog-friendly beach.

The best pubs in Devon for a well-earned pintThe best pubs in DevonGoogle Review

It is recommended to book a table in advance, particularly during busy periods like summer.

Pub Guide for Walkers in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and WalesGoogle Review

The best views are from the upstairs dining area, offering panoramic vistas of the estuary, especially during sunset.

Pubs and Restaurants | Places to Eat OutGoogle Review+1

The menu features classic pub fare with a focus on local produce, including seafood, hearty mains, and lighter bites.

Where to eat and drink in InstowPubs and inns for food lovers in Devon

Yes, the restaurant offers delicious vegan options on its menu.

Yes, the Instow Arms is a short walk from the traffic-free Tarka Trail, making it a convenient stop for cyclists and walkers.

The best pubs in Devon for a well-earned pintPub Guide for Walkers in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Wales

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We decided to give the Royal George a try tonight … careers in neurochemistry https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/RestaurantReview-g4332419-d2221888-Reviews-TheWestleighInn-WestleighDevonEngland.html NettetThere are 5 places to eat all within walking distance: The Wayfarer, Instow Arms, Boathouse, Commodore and The Quay. It is an ideal spot for most watersports and fishing, or alternatively take the seasonal passenger ferry across to the historic fishing village of … careers in new minas ns https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g551680-zfp2-InstowBidefordTorridgeDevonEngland.html Instow Beach - Visit Devon https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/RestaurantReview-g551680-d4225568-Reviews-JohnsofInstow-InstowBidefordTorridgeDevonEngland.html https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurants-g551680-zfp10601-InstowBidefordTorridgeDevonEngland.html Lisa - Review of The Glorious Oyster, Instow, England - Tripadvisor A local’s guide to Instow - Stay In Devon Nettet15. nov. 2018 · Instow has a great selection of waterfront pubs, dine at a different one each night!.

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Situated less than 100 metres from Instow’s year-round, dog-friendly beach – and just a short hop from the traffic-free Tarka Trail – the Instow Arms couldn’t be in a better setting for four-legged visitors and their owners. One of the most dog-friendly pubs in Devon, pups are warmly welcomed on the ground floor of the pub where there are dog biscuits to nibble on and a warm fire to curl up in front of – and more than likely, they’ll get a scratch behind the ears from the local patrons too. Make sure you take a look at the hand-painted ceiling while you’re in there!

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Instow Arms, Instow- Sandaway & Combe Martin - If you head further down the Tarka Trail you will end up in the beautiful coastal village of Instow. The Instow Arms is a 5 minute walk off the Tarka Trail where you can relax with your dog and enjoy breathtaking views over the estuary to the picturesque Appledore Quay and Crow Point beach. The Instow Arms use local produce sourced from local fishermen and farmers with varied seasonal menus.

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The Instow Arms is an iconic pub that has been serving locals and tourists alike for generations. This traditional English pub exudes warmth and character, with its exposed beams, roaring log fires, and spacious outdoor seating area that offers breathe taking views of the estuary. The menu at The Instow Arms features classic pub fare, including succulent roast dinners, fish and chips, and a variety of hearty pies.

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This modern pub restaurant is a stone’s throw from Instow’s year-round dog walking beach, making it the ideal spot to enjoy with your four-legged family members. The friendly team warmly welcome dogs and are known to provide treats at the bar too!. Make the most of the views over the beautiful estuary from the decking area outside, where there are blankets and heat lamps to keep you cosy on cooler days.

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A stroll on the dog-friendly beach of Instow is an enjoyable experience at all times of year, and a visit to the Instow Arms pairs perfectly with your plans. Its eclectic menu means that there’s something for all the family, and it boasts beautiful views over the beach. Take your pick from light bites to all-out platters and enjoy your meal with your four-legged friend by your side.

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Set in a grand, period building on the waterfront, Instow Arms is a fantastic restaurant and bar. With spacious yet comfortable interiors, a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, and a menu of freshly-cooked dishes with ingredients plucked from land and sea, it is sure to be a favourite in no time. Can’t wait to discover Appledore and Instow?

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Positioned a stone’s throw from the sandy beach in the charming village of Instow, this is a pub that beams over its glorious estuary views. Menus are seasonal with a focus on excellent locally sourced produce: pub grub at its best. Expect plenty of freshly caught fish, Devon beef, a decent kid’s menu and moreish puds.

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Located in a prime position on Instow Quay overlooking the beach, The Instow Arms serves a fantastic selection of food and drink throughout the day. Choose to sit outside in the beer garden or decking, or inside on the ground floor bar or the first floor restaurant.

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The pretty Instow Arms has great sea views and serves a range of fresh food using where possible local produce. The dog-friendly pub, which is just a few doors down from Instow Beach Cottage is well worth a visit, especially in the winter when the fire is roaring.

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