We stayed at a very good dog friendly hotel in Devon and I have reviewed the accommodation and service already. The hotel also stands out for the quality of the food, so I here is a dedicated review.

A Devon Cream tea was included in our package, and we took this on arrival. I normally steer clear of cream teas as they often disappoint, but this one exceeded expectations. The freshly made scones were still warm, the jam tasted home made and the clotted cream was superb. Strawberries on the side completed the picture: dog owners can take tea in the bar or reception area, those without dogs can also use the restaurant at tea time.

Dinner at this hotel is a pleasure. There is a terrace overlooking the lake, from where you can go into the formal dining room lined with bookshelves and another grand fireplace. The daily changing Table d’Hote menu uses local and seasonal fresh produce, plus the Everyday Specials menu that includes steaks and roasts. These are top notch, and the fillet steak on the second night was exceptional. There is no formal dress code in the restaurant, despite its opulent surroundings. The restaurant manager is professional and dedicated, and nothing seems to be too much trouble. Diners ranged in age from three years old to seventy plus, and each received polite and personal attention. Puddings included a lot of cream, naturally. That is not my choice so on the first night I attempted the ample local cheeseboard – it was delicious, I was defeated! The following evening I ordered the crumble, which is individually cooked to order. The crumble was served with ice cream, although custard would have been nicer.The wine list is long and includes some interesting New World wines, as well as Vina Sol from Spain, which is a favourite. Prices are good, and the wines are served at the right temperatures. The bar is also well stocked with brandy, Armagnacs and Eaux de Vie.

Breakfast is served in the restaurant and this is another experience – my advice is to go for a long walk beforehand. Kitley House has been voted Breakfast Champion of the South West, so for someone who never eats at breakfast time – like me- there is a dilemma. Stick to tea and toast or try out some of the delicacies? Well, mainly I ate toast with some fruit salad, but my partner ordered the Woodland Breakfast. When it arrived I was amazed – it consisted of scrambled eggs, grilled mushrooms, Minute Steak plus sauteed potatoes. To me they looked like chips but the waiter insisted they were not – men always stick together!

The restaurant at the Kitley House Hotels has an excellent local reputation and for hotel guests it is a welcome extra attraction.

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