When I lived in Devon, and on visiting friends down there over the years, the Drewe Arms in Drewsteighton, not far from the edge of Dartmoor (Exeter side) was a regular destination, as it was an unspoilt pub extraordinaire, read CAMRA's story in their inventory of Historic Pubs (site).
Sadly, now, despite locals, at first, running the pub when Mabel retired, it has been closed down recently, though appears to be either owned by Enterprise Inns, or they're trying to get their fingers in the 'pie'. A report in the latest What's Brewing (CAMRA newspaper) says that Enterprise are seeking a manager for the pub, so good luck to them.
It would be a shame if this pub were not to reopen, I have always enjoyed going to the 'hatch' from where ale was brought to you straight from the cask in the cellar, a rarity indeed, and Mabel herself was a great character (RIP).
Fingers crossed for the survival of the Drewe Arms, I shall watch with baited breath.
Buggering heck Colwell, what a potential disaster! I never got to visit on Mabel's watch but it was still charming and rambling inside when I visited in 2003.
ReplyDeleteCan't believe grubs like Enterprise have their dirty mits on it. I wouldn't trust them with a cup of tea, let alone a pub of note like the Drewe.
Indeed, Iain! Hopefully someone will come along and be able to handle the pub with grace, loadsa history behind the place, and I was lucky to live nearby (Exeter) whilst Mable was in charge...
ReplyDeleteAnd, as far as I can remember, they didn't sell lager, at least on keg, as no real bar?!?
Fingers crossed mate...