A cloth doll in a blue hat and colourful dress sits on a green chaise longue beside a lit candle in a dark inn interior.

Margaret is back! Our precious Doll returns

Margaret comes home!

At the age of 120 years, one is entitled to a little rest. And Margaret has just returned from a birthday holiday in Lyme Regis – her delightful Dorset home town – refreshed and settled upon a new (very old) miniature chaise longue, courtesy of the Management. You’re welcome, dear!

The White Child on the Staircase

The Old Exeter Inn is a haunted house. Hardly surprising, given its age and history. The ghost of a child walks the staircase, dressed in a white silk nightdress, holding what appears to be a small book. She is no older than eight or nine years. The apparition was last seen on the top floor. Perhaps she and Margaret are friends.

A Friendly Soul

Some visitors have said they find Margaret ‘spooky’ or ‘frightening’ or even ‘evil’. We can assure you she is none of these things. She is a lovely old lady, very much at home at the Old Exeter, watching over the bar day and night. Felines are sensitive to such things – and Witherington is very relaxed in her company. He’s been here longer than anyone.

Menus, Bookings & Opening Hours

Click here to read all our menus, or you can make an online booking. If you prefer to book by phone, call 01364 652013. Check our opening hours: click here. Or to send us a message, click here

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