Dartmoor Inn & Our Team

Julian, our ale-loving, history-hoarding captain, set his course for the historic Bearslake Inn six years back, chasing a dream peppered with cask ales and tales of yore. Catching Julian for a chat is like playing tag with a ghost—he's here, there, then poof! Off to his government day job. But come summer, he's the king of the lawn, ruling atop his trusty steed (a ride-on mower, that is), with a real ale in hand. A carnivore at heart, Julian's idea of a feast involves venison, steak, and a side of cheese, all washed down with a distinguished 10-year-old tawny port. If you're looking for local lore or a guide to the perfect ale, Julian's your man—just be sure to look for him mowing circles in the garden first!

Lisa, known as Julian's "better half" and the gin to his tonic, rules the roost at our picturesque Dartmoor Inn with a marketer's savvy and a tourist's eye. She's the captain of this ship, navigating through daily inn life with a flair that only a true Dartmoor and gin lover could muster. Leading a crew of equally enthusiastic teammates, she's the heart and soul of the inn. But, a word of caution: mention Gary Barlow around her, and you're in for a marathon chat session! Her go-to feast? A comforting cottage pie, sinfully good chocolate mousse, topped off with a zesty NZ Sauvignon Blanc. Lisa's mix of passion, prowess, and a slight Gary Barlow obsession makes every day at the inn an adventure—with a soundtrack, of course!

Poppy, the pint-sized powerhouse of Bearslake Inn - Dartmoor Inn, may have been more West Highland Terrier than West End manager, but she ruled the roost with a wag and a woof. At a grand 16 and a half years old, she perfected the art of the scruffle, championed the championship-level nap, and still stars on her own Instagram—because legends never really retire, do they? Her realm was the garden, her playground the stream, and her subjects the chefs, whom she expertly trained to dispense pub dog treats on command. While Poppy has trotted over the rainbow bridge, her spirit romps on, probably wishing she could join the parade of visiting pub dogs for a grand game of chase. Remember, every wagging tail and happy bark at Bearslake is a tribute to Poppy, the forever queen of the inn, who knew the secret to eternal youth: a good scruffle, endless treats, and the adoration of her human and canine court.