A Seasonal Guide to South Devon’s Best Winter Warmers

When the days get shorter and the sea air turns crisp, South Devon transforms into a cosy, food-lover’s paradise. Think crackling fires, twinkly lights, hearty comfort food and plenty of gorgeous spaces to hunker down with friends and family.

To help you make the most of winter dining, we’ve pulled together a lovingly curated list of our team’s favourite local restaurants, pubs and wine bars, plus a few gems that past Saltwater Escapes guests keep raving about. These aren’t just anywhere; they’re places with real atmosphere, great hospitality and menus that feel especially magical in the colder months.

And the best bit? They’re all close to Saltwater Escapes holiday homes in Brixham, Paignton, Torquay, Kingswear, Coffinswell, Teignmouth and Exeter, perfect for pairing with a winter getaway.

Brixham: Harbour Views & Fireside Feasting

The Old Market House

A winter classic overlooking the harbour, with wooden beams, rustic charm and seafood straight off the day boats. Their cider-cream mussels (and the view) are pretty legendary.

Liberty Cocktail & Wine Bar

Liberty is the place to sink into a velvety booth as the harbour twinkles outside. Their cocktail menu leans towards seasonal flavours, think warming spices, rich winter berries and beautifully balanced classics. It’s intimate, stylish and ideal for pre-dinner drinks or a long, lazy evening of grazing and sipping.

The Prince William

Right on the marina with wall-to-wall views, The Prince William is an easy winter favourite. Expect generous roasts, comfort-food classics, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. In the colder months they lean into hearty, warming specials, and there’s nothing better than settling by the fire after a windswept harbour walk.

Paignton: Comfort Food & Hidden Gems

Harbour Light

Set in a beautifully restored old harbour building with panoramic views, Harbour Light is bright, airy and perfect for lingering over brunch, feasting on fresh fish or enjoying sunset suppers with the water right at your feet. Winter brings rich, seasonal dishes ideal for cosy afternoons.

The Boathouse

A relaxed, family-friendly favourite right on the beach at Preston seafront. Winter at The Boathouse means hearty pub fare, comforting seafood dishes and hot drinks to warm your hands after a stroll along Preston Sands. A laid-back place where you can just settle in and enjoy the sea air.

Shoreline

With incredible views across Paignton seafront, Shoreline serves relaxed, feel-good food in a bright, welcoming space. Their brunches are a local favourite, and winter often brings specials that lean warm, indulgent and perfectly satisfying, ideal for a lazy morning by the waves.

Torquay: Chic Dining & Cosy Corners

The Bay

Formerly On The Rocks, The Bay delivers stylish seaside dining with a modern menu full of seasonal plates and fresh fish. It’s contemporary, warm and perfectly placed for admiring the lights along Torquay seafront. Great for lingering over cocktails and sharing dishes.

The Elephant

Torquay’s Michelin-starred gem is a winter highlight. The Elephant’s tasting menus showcase the very best local produce, prepared with finesse and creativity. The dining room feels intimate and elegant, ideal for celebrating something special or simply treating yourself to an unforgettable winter evening.

Soho Cocktail Bar

Bright, fun and buzzing with energy, Soho is perfect for those looking to round off the evening in style. Expect creative cocktails, cosy seating and a lively atmosphere without losing that warm, intimate feel.

Kingswear: Riverside Warmth & Winter Romance

The Ship Inn

A true Devon gem. Low beams, stone walls and a roaring fire give The Ship Inn bags of character. The winter menu leans hearty and traditional, and the staff make you feel like a regular within minutes. Perfect after exploring Kingswear’s quiet lanes or hopping off the ferry.

The Steam Packet Inn

Set right on the water’s edge, this riverside pub is extra atmospheric in winter. Expect crackling fires, candlelit corners and beautiful views across the Dart. Their food is generous, comforting and ideal for lingering over on a cold day, a proper winter treat.

Andria (Dartmouth)

Just across the river, Andria offers modern European cuisine in an intimate, stylish setting. It’s known for warm hospitality, beautifully plated dishes and a menu packed with seasonal flavours. Candlelight, cosy décor and refined comfort food make it a top winter pick for date nights.

Coffinswell: Traditional, Rustic Charm

The Linny

A thatched 16th-century treasure that’s practically made for winter. The fire is always going, the atmosphere is instantly welcoming, and the food, refined but familiar, feels like a real treat.

The Hare and Hounds (Kingskerswell)

A nearby countryside pub with heaps of warmth and personality. Expect hearty plates, friendly service and a menu that leans wonderfully comforting during the colder months. Great spot after scenic walks through the surrounding villages.

Teignmouth: Seaside Comfort Food & Toasty Hangouts

The Lobster Lounge & Crab Shack

This beloved Teignmouth institution blends relaxed coastal vibes with incredible seafood. The winter evenings are all candlelight, soft music and beautifully prepared dishes, everything from lobster to cosy, warming plates perfect for slow dining by the sea.

Nourish Plant-Based Café

Bright, wholesome and full of feel-good dishes, Nourish is the perfect winter stop for plant-based lovers. Expect vibrant bowls, rich soups, indulgent bakes and plenty of warming flavours. Their atmosphere is calm, friendly and ideal for a nourishing refuel after a walk along the front.

Trade Winds

A lively, colourful café with a laid-back coastal vibe. Their menu features hearty breakfasts, generous lunches, excellent coffee and vibrant flavours inspired by global comfort food. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to kick back, warm up and watch Teignmouth life drift by.

Exeter: Stylish Dining & Festive Vibes

Harry’s Restaurant

A long-standing Exeter favourite known for its charm, generous portions and warm, character-filled dining room. Harry’s is the sort of place where everything feels easy, perfect for winter date nights or celebratory meals with friends.

Crave

Sleek, modern and full of bold flavours, Crave brings inventive comfort food with a stylish twist. Expect seasonal ingredients, rich winter dishes and a cosy, contemporary dining room that makes it a great stop after Christmas shopping or festive events.

Sacred Grounds

Found in Exeter’s iconic McCoy’s Arcade, Sacred Grounds is a plant-based restaurant with a stunning, atmospheric interior. With leafy greenery, warm lighting and creative seasonal dishes, it’s a brilliant winter hideaway, especially if you love vibrant, comforting food that still feels fresh and imaginative.

Planning a Winter Escape?

Stay Cosy With Saltwater Escapes

Winter in South Devon is made for slow moments, warm meals, and exploring the coast at its most peaceful. And with properties dotted across Brixham, Paignton, Torquay, Kingswear, Coffinswell, Teignmouth and Exeter, you’re never far from a welcoming pub or a twinkling wine bar.

Whether you’re booking a festive getaway, a New Year reset, or a foodie long weekend, Saltwater Escapes offers stylish, comfortable homes that make winter breaks extra special.

Ready to get cosy? Book your perfect South Devon winter escape with Saltwater Escapes today or contact us for more information!