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Your Premier Restaurant & Bar in Exeter
Established in the 17th century, Blue Ball Inn is a historic thatched pub and restaurant located in Sandygate, Exeter, Devon. We pride ourselves on offering a warm welcome to all guests, combining traditional charm with modern comforts. Our restaurant serves seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced Devon produce, complemented by an extensive wine list and real ales. The venue features a log-burning fire for cooler months and a sun-drenched beer garden for warmer days, creating versatile spaces for casual drinks, meals, and special occasions. Under the guidance of head chef Henry Thompson, we maintain a commitment to quality and community by supporting local farmers and producers.

With flexible dining options including lunch, evening meals, and traditional Sunday roasts, we cater to diverse tastes and occasions. Our facilities extend to four contemporary en-suite bedrooms, making us an ideal base for visitors to Exeter. We also host weddings, private functions, and rugby-day guests with dedicated parking and event planning support. Our team ensures impeccable service while maintaining the character of this historic establishment, which has been serving the community for centuries.
Services
Restaurant Bar Accommodation Weddings Private functions
Highlights and features
  • We source ingredients directly from Devon farmers and producers
  • Our head chef creates seasonal menus with local specialities
  • We offer dedicated event spaces for weddings and functions
  • Our historic building features both traditional and modern amenities
  • We provide accommodation with contemporary en-suite bedrooms
What people say
Exceptional local cuisine Charming historic setting Attentive staff Seasonal menus Beautiful beer garden
Services
Restaurant
Our restaurant serves seasonal menus crafted from locally sourced Devon produce. Diners can enjoy lunch, evening meals, and traditional Sunday roasts in a stylish setting with both modern comforts and historic charm. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best of each season.
Bar
The bar offers a selection of real ales, wines, and refreshing beverages in a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy drinks by the log-burning fire or in our sun-drenched beer garden. Special seasonal offerings appear on our changing specials board.
Accommodation
We provide four contemporary en-suite bedrooms with modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee facilities, and flat-screen TVs. Rooms include doubles, twins, and a family room sleeping three guests, all decorated to a high standard.
Weddings
Our dedicated dining room accommodates up to 40 guests for weddings and special occasions. We offer tailored menus and professional event planning support to create memorable celebrations in our historic setting with both formal and informal options.
Private functions
The venue hosts private functions including corporate events and family celebrations. With flexible seating and customisable menus, our experienced team ensures every event runs smoothly in our elegant dining room or versatile bar areas.
People
Henry Thompson
Head Chef
Henry Thompson leads our kitchen team with a passion for creating seasonal dishes using the finest local ingredients. His expertise in traditional and contemporary cuisine ensures menus that showcase Devon's agricultural and coastal bounty.
Questions
What are your restaurant opening hours?
We serve food Monday-Thursday 12pm-14:30 & 17:30-20:45, Friday 12pm-15:00 & 17:00-20:45, Saturday 12-20:45, and Sunday 12pm-18:45.
Do you offer accommodation?
Yes, we have four contemporary en-suite bedrooms available with breakfast options included. Rooms can be booked via our website or by phone.
Can I book for a large group or event?
We accommodate groups up to 40 guests in our dedicated dining room. Please contact us directly to discuss your requirements and arrange menus.
Are dogs allowed?
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in our bar areas but not in the restaurant or accommodation sections.
Do you have parking facilities?
We offer convenient parking for £10 near the rugby ground, available on match days and special events.
How do I make a reservation?
Bookings can be made online through our website or by calling 01392 873 401 for restaurant, accommodation, or event reservations.