Historic Dartmoor inn up for sale

Nestled in the picturesque village of South Zeal, within Devon's Dartmoor National Park, stands The Oxenham Arms, a historic inn whose walls have witnessed over eight centuries of history, legend, and hospitality. After 13 years at the helm, current owners Simon and Lyn Powell have decided it's time for them to move on. The hotel is now up for sale with Bettesworths, who describe it as 'a beautiful 12th century, monastery manor house situated in beautiful gardens, with a private owner's bungalow to the rear. The property is steeped in history; The Oxenham Arms is home to the South Zeal menhir - a standing stone reputed to be older than Stonehenge and the great pyramid'.

The story of The Oxenham Arms begins long before its establishment as an inn. As previously mentioned, central to its structure is the South Zeal Menhir, a massive granite standing stone erected by Neolithic people approximately 5,000 years ago. This ancient monolith, standing at an impressive height, was likely a site of pagan worship and remains a focal point within the building today.

In the 12th century, Benedictine monks recognised the significance of this site and constructed a nine-room, two-story granite and oak monastery around the menhir. Remarkably, much of this original structure remains intact. Visitors can still explore areas like the Monastery Restaurant, which once served as the monks' kitchen and refectory, offering views of Dartmoor's Cosdon Hill.

By the 14th century, the monastery and its surrounding estate were acquired by the Burgoyne family, affluent traders from France. They transformed the monastic building into a grand manor house, adding the beautiful granite façade that greets visitors today. The initials "B" and "V," representing William Burgoyne and his wife Margaret Vielle, are still visible above the coach house doors.

In the late 15th century, the estate changed hands to the Oxenham family, from whom the inn derives its name. Realising the strategic location of their manor on the main route between Exeter and Plymouth, the Oxenhams obtained a license in 1477 to operate the manor as an inn, marking the birth of The Oxenham Arms as a public house.

One of the most captivating figures associated with The Oxenham Arms is Captain John Oxenham, born there in 1530. Serving under Sir Francis Drake, Oxenham became the first English sea captain to navigate the Pacific Ocean. His daring exploits against Spanish fleets are immortalised in Charles Kingsley's novel "Westward Ho!"

The inn has also welcomed a host of distinguished guests over the centuries. Literary giant Charles Dickens is believed to have stayed there, possibly drawing inspiration for his works. The renowned hymn writer Reverend Sabine Baring-Gould, creator of "Onward, Christian Soldiers," resided in what is now known as the Chagford Room during his visits. Even members of royalty, such as King Charles III, have graced its historic halls.

The inn is also believed to be one of the most haunted places in Devon. One of the most famous spectral figures said to haunt The Oxenham Arms is the aforementioned Captain John Oxenham, who met a tragic end when he was captured and executed by the Spanish. Legend has it that his restless spirit returns to the place of his birth. Guests and staff have reported sightings of a shadowy figure and unexplained noises, particularly in the upper rooms of the inn.

Perhaps the most eerie and well-documented legend associated with the inn is that of the White Bird of the Oxenhams. This ghostly bird is said to appear as an omen of death for members of the Oxenham family. The legend dates back centuries, with reports of the bird being seen just before an Oxenham relative passes away. Several historical accounts, including those from 19th-century writers, support this chilling tale.

Since The Oxenham Arms was originally a medieval monastery, it is believed that the spirits of monks who once lived there still linger. Guests have reported hearing the sound of chanting, footsteps in empty corridors, and cold spots in various rooms. Some have even claimed to see shadowy robed figures disappearing through walls.

But this may well be a great selling point for any new owner who wishes to capitalise on the myths and legends that surround this incredibly atmospheric building. Today, guests can dine in rooms that once echoed with monastic chants, sleep in chambers that housed historical figures, and touch the ancient menhir that has stood sentinel through millennia.