The Rest and Be Thankful Inn

The Rest and Be Thankful Inn

Overview

Tucked into the village crossroads at Wheddon Cross in the heart of Exmoor National Park, The Rest and Be Thankful Inn is a family-run pub with rooms that has served as a welcome pause for walkers, cyclists and explorers of the Somerset hills for generations. Its striking white facade, traditional pub sign and riverside setting make it a favoured base for those seeking a classic country inn experience with the charms of wild moorland on the doorstep. The Rest and Be Thankful Inn offers a warm and easygoing stay, ideal for couples, families, and anyone drawn to Exmoor’s walking and riding trails, or simply keen to savour real local hospitality.

Eat

Dining at The Rest and Be Thankful Inn means hearty British fare made from local Somerset and Exmoor produce. The menu leans towards pub classics – think homemade pies, Sunday roasts, and generous portions of fresh fish and vegetarian options. Their home-cooked approach, evident in both the relaxed restaurant and bustling bar, makes the most of the region’s bounty, from Exmoor lamb to seasonal game and freshly landed fish from the North Devon coast. The adjoining bar features a rotating range of real ales and ciders, including options from renowned West Country producers, alongside an accessible wine list. Friendly, attentive service shapes the experience – staff are happy to share tips for local walks or adapt dishes for dietary preferences. Whether you’re booking into the wood-panelled dining room or sharing casual snacks in the bar, expect a genuine and unpretentious welcome.

Sleep

Upstairs, the inn offers a set of en suite guest bedrooms, all individually styled with comfortable beds, crisp linens and thoughtful touches such as tea trays and local guides. Rooms range in size but share a quietly traditional look, with classic furnishings and soft country palettes. Dog-friendly options are available, and there’s a dedicated dog-wash area for those returning muddy from the moor. This is a place for a peaceful rest after a day’s roaming, practical and cosy rather than showy, perfectly suited for couples, walkers and small families who appreciate the easy blend of relaxation and rural adventure.

Retreat

A night or two at The Rest and Be Thankful Inn invites full immersion in Exmoor’s dramatic landscapes: moor-topped walks and bridleways lead directly from the inn, and the open-topped coastal road to Porlock is a short drive away. The ancient clapper bridge at Tarr Steps and wilds of Dunkery Beacon provide further walking highlights within a few miles. Those preferring market towns are a 20-minute spin from historic Dulverton or the seaside bustle of Minehead. Return in time for a pint by the log fire or a sit in the riverside beer garden, and let the tranquillity of village life take over. With ample parking and easy road access, The Rest and Be Thankful Inn is both a gateway and a real part of Exmoor – a classic British country inn break for those seeking comfort, good food and honest welcome in West Somerset.