The Blue Ball
Member Overview
The Blue Ball Inn is a historic 17th‑century thatched pub and restaurant located in the pretty village of Sandygate, just outside Exeter. Widely recognised as one of the prettiest pubs in Devon, it offers warm hospitality, classic British cooking and a cosy, stylish atmosphere that blends traditional charm with modern comfort.
Inside, guests will find a relaxed, elegant interior complete with low beams, characterful décor, and a real log‑burning fire in the colder months — perfect for winter dining. In warmer weather, visitors can enjoy drinks and meals outdoors in the spacious beer garden.
Food & Drink at The Blue Ball Inn
The kitchen, led by head chef Henry Thompson, focuses on seasonal Devon produce, creating a menu that evolves throughout the year and showcases the finest ingredients from local suppliers. From refined pub classics to contemporary dishes, the menu delivers high‑quality dining at accessible prices.
The kitchen, led by head chef Henry Thompson, focuses on seasonal Devon produce, creating a menu that evolves throughout the year and showcases the finest ingredients from local suppliers. From refined pub classics to contemporary dishes, the menu delivers high‑quality dining at accessible prices.
Expect elevated pub classics and seasonal dishes such as:
- Devon sirloin steak with peppercorn & brandy sauce
- Belly pork with cider & mustard
- Crab and prawns with garlic, chilli & lemon
- Whole baked camembert with ciabatta
- Fresh fish dishes and hearty mains.
Vegetarian, vegan and gluten‑free options are also available. The Blue Ball Inn is also known for exceptional service and is popular with diners seeking anything from a relaxed lunch to a celebratory evening meal. With its charming setting and consistently praised cooking, it remains one of Exeter’s top dining pubs.
Rooms & Accommodation
The inn offers a selection of comfortable, recently refurbished rooms — double, twin and family — with ensuite facilities, TV, hospitality tray and local breakfast options. Perfect for visitors exploring Exeter, East Devon, and the surrounding countryside.
The Blue Ball Inn Information Highlights.
- 17th‑century thatched inn with stylish interiors
- Located at Sandygate, Exeter EX2 7JL, near M5 Junction 30
- Menus built around seasonal Devon produce
- Bar serving real ales, wines & bar snacks
- Beer garden, log fire, dog‑friendly bar area
- Rooms available for overnight stays
- Extensive opening hours & all‑day food service
- Ideal for functions, private dining & large events (up to 300)
Blue Ball Inn Opening Times- Open 7 days a week.
Lunch served:
Monday to Saturday 12 – 2.30 pm
Dinner served:
Monday to Thursday 5.30 pm – 8 pm
Friday to Saturday 5.30 pm – 9 pm
Sundays 12 – 5 pm ( last orders 4 pm) – Open for drinks 12 – 6 pm
Booking is advised but not essential.
Monday to Thursday 5.30 pm – 8 pm
Friday to Saturday 5.30 pm – 9 pm
Sundays 12 – 5 pm ( last orders 4 pm) – Open for drinks 12 – 6 pm
Booking is advised but not essential.
For all Blue Ball restaurant & accommodation bookings and general enquiries, please contact us on 01392 873 401
Blue Ball Inn Exeter | thatched pub Devon | Exeter country pub restaurant | Sandygate pub dining |seasonal Devon menu
- Devon gastropub with rooms | traditional pub Exeter
Where to find us