Best Pubs in Croyde: Top 6 Places for Food, Drinks and Coastal Views

Croyde is one of North Devon’s most attractive coastal villages, known for its surfing beaches, countryside scenery and welcoming pubs.

Whether visitors want a traditional Sunday roast, locally brewed ales, relaxed family dining or evening drinks after surfing, there are several excellent places to explore.

The best pubs in Croyde range from historic thatched inns and lively village bars to contemporary restaurants and open-air drinking spots overlooking the coast.

For those exploring the village and nearby Georgeham, we have selected six pubs and bars offering different experiences, including traditional British food, real ales, cocktails, live entertainment and outdoor seating.

This guide covers their locations, opening hours, menus, contact details and what makes each establishment worth visiting.

Why Is Croyde a Popular Destination for Traditional Pubs and Coastal Dining?

Croyde attracts surfers, walkers, families and holidaymakers throughout the year, creating a lively hospitality scene despite the village’s relatively small size.

Its location near Croyde Bay, Baggy Point and the North Devon coastline means many visitors spend their days outdoors before returning to the village for food and drinks.

Unlike busy city-centre bars, pubs around Croyde often combine traditional Devon hospitality with a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy local ales, West Country ciders, freshly prepared food and outdoor seating while experiencing the character of a North Devon village.

The surrounding countryside also provides opportunities for scenic walks and cycling before stopping at a pub.

Those planning a longer visit can explore the best things to do in Croyde, including surfing, visiting Baggy Point and discovering the village’s independent shops.

During the summer, outdoor seating and live entertainment become particularly attractive, while colder months make traditional pubs with fireplaces and comfortable dining areas more appealing.

Which Types of Pubs Can Visitors Find in Croyde and Nearby Georgeham?

The pubs and bars around Croyde cater to different preferences, from casual drinks after the beach to relaxed evening dining and special occasions.

Traditional village pubs such as The Thatch and The Rock Inn offer classic hospitality, established surroundings and British pub meals.

Meanwhile, Billy Budds provides a more informal setting that is particularly appealing to families and groups of friends.

Visitors who prefer contemporary dining, cocktails and international dishes may enjoy Blue Groove, while The Lazy Wave offers an open-air bar experience.

Georgeham, a neighbouring village a short drive from Croyde, provides additional options, including The Rock Inn and The Kings Arms.

Those primarily interested in food can also explore the best restaurants in Croyde, which offer further choices for breakfast, lunch and evening meals.

The most suitable pub ultimately depends on whether visitors prioritise traditional ales, freshly cooked food, a family-friendly environment or a lively coastal atmosphere.

Top 6 Best Pubs in Croyde and Nearby

1. The Thatch – Best for Traditional Devon Pub Food and Atmosphere

Located on Hobb’s Hill in the heart of Croyde, The Thatch is one of the village’s best-known traditional pubs, combining a historic building, welcoming atmosphere and a menu inspired by British pub favourites.

Its distinctive thatched roof, rustic interiors and comfortable seating create the character visitors expect from a traditional West Country inn.

Inside, exposed wooden beams, warm lighting and inviting dining areas provide a relaxing environment for couples, families and groups of friends.

The pub serves a selection of real ales, ciders, wines and other drinks, making it popular with visitors returning from Croyde Bay.

Food is an important part of The Thatch experience, with a menu featuring classic British dishes, burgers, seafood and the pub’s well-known loaded nachos.

Visitors can also explore the breakfast, Sunday lunch and children’s menus, which make it suitable for different dining occasions.

During warmer months, the outdoor seating area becomes particularly attractive for enjoying food and drinks in the sunshine.

The Thatch also provides guest accommodation, making it convenient for visitors planning to stay overnight while exploring North Devon.

Its combination of traditional surroundings, established reputation and varied food options makes The Thatch particularly appealing for visitors wanting an authentic Devon pub experience.

Pub details

• Contact: +441271890349
• Website: thethatchcroyde.co.uk
• Price range: Listed as £25 and under per person for dining; actual spend varies
• Best for: Traditional pub meals, couples, families and Sunday lunch
• Cuisine: British pub classics, gastropub dishes and seafood 

2. Billy Budds – Best for Casual Drinks, Families and Live Entertainment

Situated at 12 Hobb’s Hill, Billy Budds is a relaxed village pub known for its informal atmosphere, friendly hospitality and popularity among surfers and holidaymakers.

Its central location makes it convenient for visitors looking for somewhere to unwind after spending time on Croyde Beach.

Billy Budds offers spacious indoor dining areas alongside outdoor seating, allowing customers to choose between a comfortable pub setting and an open-air experience during warmer weather.

The food menu focuses on casual favourites, including burgers, pizzas, nachos and regularly changing specials.

These options are particularly suitable for families, groups of friends and visitors who prefer straightforward, satisfying meals rather than formal restaurant dining.

The bar serves local ales and a selection of familiar drinks, while televisions showing sports provide another attraction for customers wanting to follow major fixtures.

During summer weekends, live entertainment can contribute to the pub’s energetic atmosphere, attracting both local residents and holidaymakers.

Billy Budds also offers accommodation, giving visitors the option to stay in the village rather than travelling further after an evening out.

For anyone looking for a friendly, unpretentious pub with food, drinks and occasional entertainment, Billy Budds is a strong choice.

Pub details

• Contact: +441271890606
• Website: billybudds.co.uk
• Price range: Depends on current menu and specials
• Best for: Casual dining, families, sports viewing and summer entertainment
• Cuisine: Burgers, pizzas, nachos and British pub favourites 

3. Blue Groove – Best for Cocktails, Contemporary Dining and Seaside Relaxation

Blue Groove, located at 2 Hobb’s Hill, offers a contemporary alternative to the traditional pubs found throughout Croyde and the neighbouring villages.

Operating as a café, restaurant and bar, it combines a laid-back seaside atmosphere with an extensive menu designed to appeal to different tastes.

The interior has a casual, modern character, making it suitable for family lunches, relaxed evening meals and gatherings with friends.

One of Blue Groove’s main attractions is its varied food offering, which includes locally landed fish specials, homemade curries, mussels, steaks, burgers and sharing platters.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are also available, making it a convenient choice for groups with different dietary preferences.

Visitors arriving earlier in the day can enjoy breakfasts, barista coffee, smoothies, milkshakes and traditional Devon cream teas.

The drinks selection includes local ales, ciders, beers, spirits and classic cocktails, allowing the venue to operate as both a dining destination and an evening bar.

Families may also appreciate the garden play area, while couples and groups can book tables for relaxed dining.

Blue Groove is particularly appealing to visitors who prefer a broader international menu and modern coastal atmosphere rather than a conventional village pub.

Bar and restaurant details

• Contact: +441271890111
• Website: blue-groove.co.uk
• Price range: Varies across breakfast, lunch and dinner menus
• Best for: Cocktails, couples, families and contemporary dining
• Cuisine: Modern European, international, seafood and vegetarian dishes

4. The Rock Inn – Best for Real Ales, Cosy Fireplaces and Traditional Country Pub Dining

Located on Rock Hill in Georgeham, a neighbouring village close to Croyde, The Rock Inn offers visitors a traditional country pub experience in a historic setting.

This 17th-century inn is known for its welcoming atmosphere, real ales and comfortable dining arrangements.

The pub features cosy bars with fireplaces, making it an attractive destination during colder months when visitors want to relax after exploring the North Devon coastline.

Its bright conservatory provides an alternative dining space, particularly appealing for leisurely lunches and evening meals.

The Rock Inn serves five Cask Marque real ales alongside a selection of wines and other drinks.

Food is another major attraction, with a menu combining British pub classics and more contemporary dishes.

The published summer 2026 menu includes battered fish and chips, Devon crab salad, homemade-style pies, burgers, seafood linguine and vegetable-based dishes.

Main courses on that menu generally range from approximately £17 to £30, with children’s meals and desserts available separately.

The Rock Inn also provides online table reservations, making it convenient for visitors planning a meal during busy weekends and holiday periods.

Its combination of historic surroundings, traditional ales and a substantial food menu makes it especially suitable for couples, families and visitors seeking a quieter countryside pub.

Pub details

• Contact: +441271890322
• Website: therockinn.biz
• Price range: Approximately £17–£30 for most main courses on the summer 2026 menu
• Best for: Real ales, couples, Sunday roasts and traditional country pub dining
• Cuisine: British pub classics, seafood, burgers and vegetarian dishes 

5. The Kings Arms – Best for Sunday Roasts, Relaxed Dining and Village Hospitality

Situated on Chapel Street in Georgeham, The Kings Arms is a traditional village pub offering a combination of quality food, comfortable surroundings and welcoming local hospitality.

A short drive from Croyde, it provides an attractive alternative for visitors who want to explore the neighbouring countryside rather than remain in the busier coastal village.

Inside, the pub features a cosy bar, comfortable seating and dining areas designed for relaxed lunches and evening meals.

Its traditional character is complemented by a fireplace, sofas and a balcony, giving visitors different spaces in which to enjoy food and drinks.

The Kings Arms places particular emphasis on seasonal ingredients and freshly prepared food, with menus covering lunch, dinner, Sunday roasts and children’s meals.

Sunday lunch is a notable attraction, making the pub appealing for families and couples wanting a traditional roast after a weekend coastal walk.

Local ales and a selection of wines complement the food, while the informal atmosphere helps the venue retain the feel of a genuine village pub.

The Kings Arms also welcomes dogs, although customers bringing pets are encouraged to mention this when booking because the dining room has limited space.

For visitors seeking a relaxed meal away from the busiest parts of Croyde, The Kings Arms provides a comfortable and characterful option.

Pub details

• Contact: +441271890240
• Website: kingsarmsgeorgeham.co.uk
• Price range: Depends on seasonal lunch, dinner and Sunday roast menus
• Best for: Sunday roasts, couples, families and dog-friendly dining
• Cuisine: Seasonal British dishes and traditional pub food

6. The Lazy Wave – Best for Outdoor Drinks, Beach Views and a Relaxed Surf Atmosphere

Located at Freshwell Camping on Moor Lane, The Lazy Wave offers a different experience from the traditional village pubs found in Croyde and Georgeham.

This relaxed open-air bar and kitchen is designed around the area’s coastal lifestyle, making it particularly appealing to campers, surfers and visitors who enjoy outdoor dining.

One of its main attractions is its setting, which provides views towards Croyde Beach and the surrounding coastal scenery.

Rather than focusing on formal restaurant dining, The Lazy Wave offers a casual environment where visitors can enjoy food and drinks while spending time outdoors.

The kitchen serves burgers, pizzas and accompanying sides, with choices including beef burgers, chicken burgers and a falafel burger.

Published menu prices include a single beef burger at £9.50, a chicken burger at £11 and pizzas generally ranging from £11 to £15.

Visitors looking for something lighter can order sides such as waffle fries.

Live music is another feature, with the venue advertising performances twice a week alongside other community events.

Its relaxed format makes The Lazy Wave particularly suitable for friends, couples and families who want somewhere informal to spend a summer evening.

For visitors seeking an open-air experience with food, drinks and coastal views, The Lazy Wave offers an appealing alternative to Croyde’s traditional pubs.

Bar details

• Contact: +447970508940
• Website: croydefreshwellcamping.co.uk
• Price range: Approximately £9.50–£16 for burgers and pizzas on the published menu
• Best for: Outdoor drinks, campers, surfers, live music and casual dining
• Cuisine: Burgers, pizzas and casual street-food-style dishes 

How Much Does It Cost to Eat and Drink at Pubs in Croyde?

Eating and drinking around Croyde can suit different budgets, depending on the venue, the type of meal and whether visitors are ordering drinks alongside their food.

Traditional pubs with full restaurant menus generally require a larger dining budget than casual bars serving burgers, pizzas and lighter meals.

For visitors comparing the six establishments, the following table provides a practical overview.

Pub or bar	Food budget and pricing
The Thatch	Listed dining category of £25 and under per person
Billy Budds	Casual pub menu; current prices should be checked
Blue Groove	Breakfast, lunch and dinner prices vary
The Rock Inn	Main courses approximately £17–£30 on its summer 2026 menu
The Kings Arms	Seasonal menus; prices depend on dishes selected
The Lazy Wave	Burgers and pizzas approximately £9.50–£16

These figures relate primarily to food, rather than a full meal including alcoholic drinks, and are not fixed-price offers.

Visitors travelling on a tighter budget may find The Lazy Wave particularly appealing for its straightforward menu and individually priced dishes.

Those planning a more substantial restaurant-style meal may prefer The Rock Inn, The Kings Arms or The Thatch.

Families should also check children’s menus, while larger groups may benefit from booking tables in advance.

For a longer stay, choosing accommodation close to the village can make evening dining more convenient. Visitors can compare holiday cottages in Croyde when planning their trip.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Pubs in Croyde?

The best time to visit pubs in Croyde depends largely on whether visitors prefer a lively holiday atmosphere or a quieter dining experience.

Summer is particularly popular because the village attracts surfers, families and holidaymakers taking advantage of the nearby beaches.

Outdoor seating becomes more appealing during warmer weather, and some venues organise live music or additional entertainment.

Weekends and school holidays can be busy, making advance reservations worthwhile for popular dining establishments.

Visitors who prefer a more relaxed experience may find weekdays and the quieter months outside the main holiday season more suitable.

Autumn and winter can be especially enjoyable at traditional pubs such as The Thatch and The Rock Inn, where comfortable interiors provide a welcome contrast to the colder coastal weather.

Those combining pub visits with outdoor activities can also explore the best surfing beaches in Devon or discover other things to do in North Devon.

It is worth remembering that opening hours, kitchen times and live entertainment schedules may change seasonally, particularly at smaller or outdoor venues.

Whether visitors choose the traditional atmosphere of The Thatch, the lively setting of Billy Budds, the contemporary dining experience at Blue Groove or the relaxed outdoor environment of The Lazy Wave, Croyde and nearby Georgeham offer a varied selection of places to enjoy food and drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pubs in Croyde

What Are the Best Pubs in Croyde?

The Thatch, Billy Budds and Blue Groove are popular choices in Croyde, while The Rock Inn and The Kings Arms in nearby Georgeham offer traditional country pub experiences.

Which Pubs in Croyde Serve the Best Food?

The Thatch is known for British pub classics, Blue Groove offers international dishes, and The Rock Inn is popular for traditional meals and locally sourced ingredients.

Are There Any Dog-Friendly Pubs in Croyde?

Several pubs around Croyde welcome dogs, including The Kings Arms in Georgeham. Visitors should check individual pet policies before arriving.

Which Pubs in Croyde Have Outdoor Seating?

The Thatch, Billy Budds and Blue Groove offer outdoor seating, while The Lazy Wave provides a relaxed open-air bar experience near Croyde Beach.

Where Can You Find Pubs With Live Music in Croyde?

Billy Budds occasionally hosts live entertainment, while The Lazy Wave advertises live music events during its operating season.

Are There Family-Friendly Pubs in Croyde?

Yes. The Thatch, Billy Budds and Blue Groove are suitable for families, offering casual dining environments and food options for children.

Do Pubs in Croyde Serve Sunday Roasts?

Yes. Traditional pubs such as The Thatch, The Rock Inn and The Kings Arms are popular options for Sunday roasts, although availability and serving times should be confirmed in advance.