TUCKENHAY, DEVON — The Maltsters Arms, the historic riverside inn nestled on the banks of the River Dart, has been propelled back into the national spotlight after securing a prestigious double accolade from the AA.

The inn, situated in the picturesque village of Tuckenhay, has been awarded an AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence for its dining, alongside an impressive four AA stars for its accommodation. The awards mark a significant milestone for the pub, once owned by the legendary television chef Keith Floyd, whose legacy of “honest cooking” and “good food and wine” remains a cornerstone of the establishment.

​“Skilled Execution” in the Kitchen

The kitchen, led by Head Chef Dan Morris, was singled out for its technical prowess and dedication to the Devon larder.

Morris previously worked at The Elephant in Torquay and completed stages in multiple Michelin-starred kitchens honing his skills under the guidance of some of the UK’s most acclaimed chefs. He also benefited from mentorship under Gordon Ramsay, learning to combine exacting technique with bold, expressive flavours. Dan has built a philosophy around seasonality, provenance and sustainability, creating dishes that celebrate the South Hams’ abundant larder — from fresh seafood to locally reared meats, game, and foraged ingredients.

​“My aim is simple,” says Dan. “To give guests a unique and memorable dining experience, drawing on modern culinary techniques and of course delivering excellent taste and flavours. I use the best of Devon’s larder, from the land and the sea and our menu changes almost every day to reflect this.”

​The visiting AA inspector was notably impressed by the standard of the food, reporting:

​“Output from the kitchen impressed, dishes underpinned by quality produce and skilled execution, an Award of One Rosette is well deserved with clear potential for advancement. Public areas are very inviting, the main bar being a very engaging and convivial environment. Future progress will be monitored with interest.”

​A Boutique Riverside Sanctuary

​The recognition extended beyond the plate, with the inn’s bedrooms receiving a four-star rating, placing it among the highest-rated small inns in the country. The inspector praised the “beguiling” setting and the “real sense of commitment and pride” shown by the staff.

​“A pleasure to visit The Maltsters Arms, such an iconic pub with many a story to tell,” the inspector commented. “The setting is beguiling, tucked away from prying eyes, it’s a very easy place in which to relax and unwind.”

​Honouring a Culinary Heritage

​For owners Matt Clark and Erin Allgrove, the awards are a validation of their vision for the historic site. Speaking on the achievement, Matt Clark noted the importance of the inn’s connection to its former owner.

​“This is a hugely proud moment for my partner Erin and me – to receive recognition for both our kitchen and our bedrooms reflects the dedication of our entire team,” Clark said. “We are especially honoured to do so in a place so closely associated with Keith Floyd, whose philosophy of simple, generous food and warm hospitality continues to inspire what we do every day.”

​The Maltsters Arms continues to be a landmark destination for those arriving by road or by boat, offering a blend of contemporary comfort and historic charm that keeps the heritage of the West Country very much alive.

Planning to visit? – visit https://www.the-maltsters.co.uk/