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Discovering the History of Pubs: Barnstaple, Newton St Cyres, and Half Moon
Here I visit several notable pubs and breweries in Devon, starting with The Beer Engine in Newton St Cyres, which is a historic brewpub offering a variety of on-site brewed ales and a cosy atmosphere. I continue to The Reform Inn in Barnstaple, known for its rich history and role in reviving local ale production. The visit to Beer Matters highlights its community focus as a micropub with a relaxed vibe and a selection of cask ales. Finally, Hanlons Brewery in Half Moon is noted for its award-winning ales and inviting setting, providing hearty food options. Each venue showcases local brewing traditions and charm.
Newton St Cyres is a peaceful village just outside Exeter, dating back to the Domesday Book, with deep farming roots and a lovely old church at its heart. Barnstaple, up in North Devon, was once a thriving medieval port and market town, especially big on the wool trade. It still has hints of its busy past, with narrow streets and old buildings. Half Moon is a tiny hamlet near Newton St Cyres—more of a scattering of homes than a village, but it’s been around for centuries, tied closely to the rural rhythms and quiet charm of Mid Devon life.
Newton St Cryes
The Beer Engine
Out on the train next towards Barnstaple, and getting off at the request stop Newton St Cyres. Here I visited The Beer Engine, Newton St Cyres. It started out as a 19th-century coaching inn. It began brewing its own beer in 1983, becoming Devon’s first commercial brewpub. The name “Beer Engine” refers to the traditional hand pump used to serve cask ales. The pub combines rustic charm with a working brewery, offering a range of craft ales brewed on-site. Steeped in local history, it has become a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic real ales and hearty food in a cosy, historic setting near the London South Western Railway. Scattered vintage railway photos, old pub signs, and a roaring real fire in the colder months complete the charm of this pub, offering an intimate, friendly feel.
Upon entering through the low doorway you are instantly greeted by a great warming and cosy feeling, from the wooden floors, exposed beams and a great atmosphere. The main bar area houses a large bar, surrounded by comfy seating, stools and wall seats. An outdoor beer garden allows you to enjoy the weather in beautifully quiet surroundings. Downstairs another bar and pool table, alongside the brewery which can be seen through windows, having not long celebrated their 5000th brew, quite an achievement. A large outdoor covered events space can be found outside which looks fantastic.
Was great meeting Vicki, Will and the team here today. On the bar a great selection of 5 cask ales all brewed on site ranging in strength. Alongside this a keg selection including 3 ciders from Sandford Orchards. A selection of their own bottled beers and gift packs are available. I Sampled 3 of their beers starting with “Rail Ale”, a delicious light and refreshing pale ale. Moving onto “Spring Return” and “Piston Bitter”. Another 2 great tasting beers.
Barnstaple
The Reform Inn
Next was further out on the train to Barnstaple. A walk through the high street brought me to Pilton area. Here I visited The Reform Inn Pilton. This has been serving the local community since at least 1859. Now the taproom for Barum Brewery, founded in 1996 by Tim Webster, it remains a cornerstone of the area’s brewing tradition. The name “Barum” comes from the Roman name for Barnstaple. The pub played a key role in reviving local ale production and hosts the annual Green Man beer festival. A great warm welcome today from Grace behind the bar who is also now brewery and should be very proud of the beers she is producing.
Inside has a delightful feeling of stepping back in time. The public bar, painted in a rich red, features a pool table, darts board, vintage brewery pumps, and wood‑panelled walls adorned with local artwork. A separate green‑painted lounge offers intimate seating by small tables creating a quieter retreat from the main bar area. A small beer garden at the rear with the brewery housed behind. All in all a warm, cosy feel to the place.
On the bar 2 cask ales brewed on site alongside a local cider. Sampled both of the in house brewed ales starting with “Original”, a delicious traditional English Bitter, and moving onto “Breakfast”, another Bitter but slightly stronger.
Beer Matters
Next is a visit to Beer Matters. This is a fantastic cosy, community-focused micropub that opened in December 2022 on Tuly Street. Set up by local enthusiasts, it was inspired by the traditional values of socialising and conversation, offering a space free from modern pub distractions. The building, once part of a historic street near Barnstaple’s market area, now welcomes a mix of locals and visitors. Its name reflects a passion for quality experiences and community spirit. With a simple setup and friendly atmosphere, it quickly became a social meet up spot.
Inside, it has a warm, rustic charm with exposed brick walls, wooden floors, and simple, handcrafted furniture. Mismatched chairs and reclaimed wood tables give it a relaxed, lived-in feel. The lighting is soft and ambient, with vintage-style bulbs creating a welcoming glow. Shelves lined with books, local artwork, and quirky decorations add character. There’s no TV or loud music—just friendly conversation and a laid-back atmosphere.
A huge thanks to local Alan who gave me a lift from and to the station (even more so with the torrential rain), it was very much appreciated. Great to meet owners Alison and Simon as well as a few of the regulars including Doug.
On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales, alongside a cider and a couple of keg lines. Here I went with “Ferryman” from Exeter Brewery. A delicious, malty and full bodied traditional English Bitter.
Half Moon
Hanlons Brewery
Back on the train from Barnstaple to Crediton, and changing onto a bus towards Exeter getting off at Half Moon Village. Hanlons Brewery has been crafting award-winning ales since 2013. The brewery was rebranded from O’Hanlons Brewery under new ownership, led by Dan Taylor and Jim Bungard, who relocated operations to a purpose-built facility at Hill Farm. Their flagship beers, such as Yellow Hammer and Port Stout, have garnered numerous accolades, including Gold and Silver awards at the Taste of the West. In 2019, Hanlons expanded by acquiring Prescott Ales, further solidifying its presence in the beer scene.
Inside feels warm and inviting, with a cosy yet lively vibe. The first part covered outside. Rustic wooden tables give it a charming, authentic feel. The space is well-lit with soft, ambient lighting, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for chilling with friends or enjoying a quiet pint. Outside seating on a raised level and includes some bookable huts for groups which look great. BFK serves up tasty eats that go perfectly with beers. Think juicy burgers, smoky ribs, pulled pork, and loaded fries. They’ve got veggie options too, like bean burgers and nachos.
A fantastic warm welcome from Sam and the team this evening. On the bar a choice of 3 cask ales alongside some keg options, alongside their bottled beers. The brewery shop can be browsed upstairs and gives views over the brewery, with more seating up there. On the bar a selection of 3 cask ales, alongside a cider and a couple of keg lines. Here I went with “Port Stout”, a dark, chestnut beer with the addition of Ruby Port giving some delicious flavours.
Micropub Adventures 