The Lamb

Just a few minutes outside buzzy Exeter, The Lamb is the undisputed treasure of Longdown and the surrounding area. Its semi-rural location gives this charming eatery an air of delightful tranquillity, which is enhanced by the tasteful decor inside.

Settle down in a squashy armchair with a pint of local beer – perhaps Otter Bitter or Avocet Ale – or take a seat in the elegant dining area and stay for a bite to eat. The exquisite seasonal menu features dishes like smoked duck breast with candied fennel and carrot purée to start. For mains you might plump for sumptuous venison in rich game jus, served with Dauphinoise potatoes and rainbow chard; or perhaps the pan-roasted hake loin with juicy seared scallops and new potatoes, in a Romanesco and garlic velouté sauce. The carefully selected wine list has a wide range of options to complement your meal; perhaps choose a rich and fruity Chilean red like Casa Silva cabernet sauvignon-carmenère, or a crisp white like Italy’s amori pinot grigio.

The pudding menu includes several delectable twists on old classics – savour duck egg crème brûlée accompanied by poached rhubarb and gingerbread, or dark chocolate and mint torte with chocolate crumb. The chocolate torte goes especially well with a rich cup of coffee.