The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon, South Zeal ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon South Zeal Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

South Zeal, Okehampton, Devon, South Zeal, United Kingdom, EX20 2JT

Steps from Dartmoor

Perfect

9.1

9.6

/10

3.4

4.3

Loved by The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon guests

Comfortable beds
Delicious food
Friendly staff
Historic inn

"History is palpable throughout but the creature comforts are well taken care of."

Ian from United States

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"The Ox simply oozes history, from the bar with the huge granite fireplace in the bar to the suit of armour guarding the bottom of the resident's stairs."

Dimondii from United Kingdom

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"Everything- quintessential English pub with added history."

Deb from Australia

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Historic 4-star inn with stunning Dartmoor views

Rooms

The Oxenham Arms Hotel offers 5 superking English oak hand-carved four-poster bedrooms, alongside double and twin rooms. Many rooms feature beamed ceilings and log fires, enhancing the historical charm of the hotel. All accommodations are located on the first floor, providing direct access to the monastery sections of the building.

Dining

The hotel provides various dining options including the Monastery Restaurant, the Oak Dining Room, and the Standing Stone Snug bar, where guests can enjoy meals in a traditional setting. The menus feature locally sourced ingredients with a variety of culinary selections for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Private dining rooms are also available for group gatherings upon request.

Outdoor Activities

Guests can explore fabulous Dartmoor walks with immediate access to walking and cycling routes right from the hotel. The Oxenham Arms has produced a series of free walking guides that offer line-by-line instructions and map references for various trails. From a 30-minute stroll to a 5-hour hike, there are options for all fitness levels amid the stunning landscapes.

Historic Significance

Established in 1477 as a pub, the Oxenham Arms is known as the oldest CAMRA Heritage Inn in Devon and Cornwall, with a rich history dating back to the 12th century when Benedictine monks built the monastery surrounding the standing stone. The hotel retains many original features, including thick walls and ancient architectural details that reflect its storied past. Historical figures, including Charles Dickens and Admiral Lord Nelson, have visited this remarkable establishment.

Pet-Friendly

The Oxenham Arms welcomes dogs on leads, allowing guests to enjoy the grounds alongside their pets. Dog biscuits are provided complimentary upon arrival. The bar and gardens are available for dogs, ensuring a comfortable experience for guests traveling with animals.

Highlights

Location: Stunning Dartmoor views from hotel grounds

Rooms: 5 superking English oak hand carved four poster bedrooms

Dining: Monastery Restaurant and Oak Dining Room

Activities: Fabulous Dartmoor walks with free walking guides

Pet-Friendly: Dogs on leads are welcome in the bar and gardens

“The Oxenham Arms isn't just a place to stay; it's an experience steeped in history, dating back to the 12th century, with the remarkable integration of an ancient monastery. The hotel's dedication to quality extends to its dining, evidenced by its AA Rosette and thoughtful dietary provisions, and I appreciate that they haven't overlooked the needs of four-legged family members, either. In my opinion, the unique gardens with their 5000-year-old standing stone and proximity to Dartmoor's walking trails make it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable, nature-infused getaway.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.0/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningExceptional Food

The fish and chips were the best I've ever had! The Sunday lunch, followed by supper in the bar, was delightful.

Oliver Smith from United Kingdom

Review on

Guest ParkingEasy Parking

Parking was easy right outside the front door. This made arrival and departure stress-free and convenient.

Emma Johnson from Australia

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BedroomCosy Four-Poster

The four-poster bed was very quaint. The room was cosy, with a comfortable setting area. We slept so well!

Isabelle Dubois from France

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Room FeaturesHistoric Charm

Our room had uneven floors and thick walls. It was lovely and spacious with much character and interesting history.

Hans Müller from Switzerland

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Select your room type

The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Superior Double Room Four Poster Bed

2 persons

185 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

King Room Four Poster Bed

2 persons

155 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Double Room Four Poster Bed & Countryside View

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Luxury Double Room Four Poster Bed & View

2 persons

280 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.7/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Off-site car park
VIP check-in/ -out
Concierge desk
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Tennis court
Golf course

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Dryer

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Tours/Ticket assistance
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Dinner
Packed lunches
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Board games
Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Dryer

Media

Flat-screen TV
CD player
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

The Oxenham Arms Hotel in Devon offers a delightful range of dining options that embrace British and European culinary traditions. With cozy settings and menus catering to various dietary preferences, guests can indulge in everything from hearty meals to light bites in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon South Zeal Restaurant photo

The 1477 Bar

British

Ambiance

A friendly and cozy atmosphere with ancient stones and a welcoming vibe, perfect for unwinding after exploring Dartmoor.

Key Offerings

An impressive selection of gins and craft cocktails in a relaxed setting, ideal for casual dining.

Reservation

Hours vary.

The Monastery Restaurant

British, European

Ambiance

Traditional and romantic, this venue features an inviting decor that enhances every meal with a special touch.

Key Offerings

Offers a variety of dishes that cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, making it inclusive for all guests.

Reservation

11:00 AM - 10:30 PM, daily.

The Oak Dining Room

British

Ambiance

Family-friendly yet romantic, blending modern and traditional decor to create a comforting dining environment.

Key Offerings

Serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and high tea, with menu options that cater to various dietary needs for a delightful family experience.

Reservation

11:00 AM - 10:30 PM, daily.

The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon Location

South Zeal, Okehampton, Devon, South Zeal, United Kingdom, EX20 2JT

Map view

South Zeal, Okehampton, Devon, South Zeal, United Kingdom, EX20 2JT

City landmarks

Landmark

Finch Foundry

3800 ft

Landmark

Cosdon Hill

1.6 mi

Landmark

Meldon Viaduct

3.6 mi

Castle

Okehampton Castle

4.2 mi

Museum

Museum of Dartmoor Life

4.1 mi

Nearby

The Oxenham Arms Dartmoor National Park

The Oxenham Arms and South Zeal Menhir Dartmoor Devon

1700 ft

Restaurants

The Oxenham Arms Restaurant

100 ft

South Zeal

The Kings Arms

700 ft

South Zeal Okehampton

Explore South Zeal

Explore South Zeal and Dartmoor

Finch Foundry

14 minutes' walk

Historic water-powered forge showcasing local craftsmanship, featuring guided tours and special exhibits.

Cosdon Hill

30 minutes' walk

Stunning views from the summit, popular hiking destination with diverse landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere.

Okehampton Castle

15 minutes' drive

Impressive medieval ruins set in beautiful grounds, offering guided tours and rich historical insights.

Hiking on Dartmoor

30 minutes' walk

Various trails available for all skill levels, with breathtaking views and regional wildlife to observe.

Biking at Meldon Viaduct

10 minutes' drive

Scenic cycling routes along the viaduct with nearby rental services for bike hires; seasonal trails ensure year-round fun.

The Oxenham Arms Restaurant

1 minute' walk

Traditional British pub fare in a cozy setting; must-try homemade pies and seasonal specials.

The Kings Arms

3 minutes' walk

Welcoming local pub serving classic dishes; known for hearty options and a friendly atmosphere.

Local Pubs with Live Music

3 minutes' walk

Vibrant local pubs often hosting live music events; great for a fun night out with a laid-back vibe.

Monthly Craft Fair

10 minutes' drive

Showcasing local artisans, this fair offers handmade goods, entertainment, and local treats suitable for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

South Zeal3 min · 700 ft

Airports

Exeter International (EXT)66 min · 27.1 mi

Newquay (NQY)149 min · 61.5 mi

Bus

Bus stop11 min · 4.2 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-22:30

Check-out

from 07:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel The Oxenham Arms Devon provides visitors with a free full breakfast.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Former name

the oxenham arms hotel and restaurant

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Oxenham Arms offers a unique, historic experience, with a charming dining room featuring a historic standing stone. Guests often enjoy the delicious food, including the fish and chips, scallops, and brie salad, and find the breakfasts fabulous. The four-poster beds are frequently mentioned as providing a fantastic night's sleep, although some guests have occasionally found the rooms a little chilly. The hotel boasts a huge garden with stunning views, making it a memorable stay for many.

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Review score

Based on 192 verified reviews

8.9/10

Great

89%

Recommend

Staff

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.1/10

Free Wi-Fi

7.5/10

Facilities

8.7/10

Pros

Comfortable bed

Rich history

Friendly staff

Exceptional food

Cons

Small room

Limited parking

Inaccurate description

Closed restaurant

Justin from Canada

Couple

Double Room Garden View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 29, 2025

9.3/10

Historical Charm and Great Service

friendly servicefascinating historywonderful gardensadvantageous location

The staff offered very friendly service. I enjoyed the fascinating history within the pub. The gardens were wonderful to walk through. I found the location advantageous for exploring Dartmoor.

The room lacked air conditioning, resulting in slight discomfort due to the heat.

Service

9/10

The staff showed enthusiasm when sharing the rich history of the hotel. All requests were handled efficiently, and everyone was eager to assist guests, which i appreciated. The team's dedication was evident.

Rooms

9/10

My room featured a garden view. The bed linen felt luxurious. The room size felt large, and it was well worth the price, everything was super clean. It was a comfortable space, and i rested well.

Dining

10/10

The breakfast offered a good choice of items. The food served was amazing, with an excellent quality. I particularly enjoyed the chef's specials. It was such a lovely experience. The ingredients seemed very fresh.

Facilities

9/10

The gardens provided a serene escape for relaxation. The building showcased historical architecture. The architecture has great character. The venue felt unique due to its quirky design, that i thought, set it apart.

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Willie from United States

Family with children

Double Room Four Poster Bed

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: November 24, 2025

9/10

comfortable bedgood breakfastquiet location

i stayed in a double room four poster bed. the bed was very comfortable. breakfast was good. the location is very quiet at night.

the room felt a little chilly.

0 Helpful

Hudson from Canada

Couple

Double Room Four Poster Bed

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: November 02, 2025

9.5/10

a historical GEM!!!

huge gardenfour postersuperhot room

the building was authentic with a huge garden offering fine views. the bed was a huge four poster and i slept fantastically!!!

the hotel had no fans or ac, and the room was superhot. it made for an uncomfortable night.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel boasts a huge garden with fine views, ideal for relaxation and exploration. I also noted historical artefacts adding to the unique atmosphere.

Location

10/10

The hotel's location allows for quiet nights and easy access to local attractions. I found the area serene and perfect for a restful vacation.

Dining

9/10

The hotel restaurant offered a great meal, with high-quality ingredients and delicious flavors. Breakfast featured fabulous options, ensuring a satisfying start to the day.

Service

10/10

the staff was genuinely friendly and created a cute atmosphere!!! i felt at home, as the service was very attentive, quick and personalized.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About The Oxenham Arms Hotel Devon

Are there any double rooms available for booking on 5 February 2024?

5 February 2024

Yes, double rooms are available for that date.

Is there an option for dining in a private room for groups at The Oxenham Arms?

15 March 2024

Yes, arrangements can be made for private dining for groups, parties, and gatherings upon request.

Can guests bring their dogs to the bar and gardens?

20 April 2024

Dogs on leads are welcome in the bar and gardens, and a complimentary dog biscuit will be provided upon arrival.

What types of rooms does The Oxenham Arms offer?

30 May 2024

The hotel features five superking English oak hand-carved four-poster rooms, along with standard double and twin rooms.

Are there any guided walking routes available for guests?

12 June 2024

Yes, there are a variety of guided walking routes available directly from The Oxenham Arms, covering all fitness levels and highlighting local attractions.

Is the hotel accessible for individuals with mobility issues?

25 July 2024

All rooms are located on the first floor, accessible via stairs with handrails from the ground floor, so individuals with mobility issues should consider this when planning their stay.

What kind of amenities can guests expect in the rooms?

10 August 2024

Rooms include en-suite bathrooms, tea and coffee-making facilities, luxury bedding, and daily housekeeping among other comforts.

Is there parking available for guests arriving by car?

28 September 2024

Yes, there is a village car park nearby with 54 spaces, complete with night-time lighting and an illuminated walkway to The Oxenham Arms.

Can I enjoy a meal at The Oxenham Arms if I'm staying at a different location?

5 October 2024

Yes, the restaurant welcomes guests for dining regardless of accommodation location.

What is the history behind The Oxenham Arms?

15 November 2024

The Oxenham Arms has a rich history, originally serving as a monastery in the 12th century and becoming a pub/hotel in 1477, now recognized as the oldest CAMRA Heritage Inn in Devon and Cornwall.