Village’s only pub could close permanently

Owners of The Castle Inn at George Nympton have struggled to sell it

A Victorian village pub near South Molton could cease as ‘the local’ if planning consent is given to turn it into holiday accommodation.

The Castle Inn at George Nympton has been on the market for a year but has had no viewings and no real interested parties, according to property agents Christie & Co.

Owners Ian and Debs Trott decided to close the pub and retire at the end of 2025 and had been trying to sell it as a going concern with B&B accommodation.

In a social media post in December they said: “The Castle Inn is now closed for the foreseeable! We have thoroughly enjoyed welcoming you all, but we have decided to retire and enjoy some well deserved time off! Life is too short, we’re off on a cruise in the new year and also plan on exploring parts of the world in our new caravan!

“We want to thank everyone who has supported us over the years”

The Castle Inn, which was known for good home-cooked food, Sunday lunches and breakfasts, was advertised for £575,000 in May 2025 but reduced to £525,000 by September.

It’s the only pub in the village with the next nearest facility in South Molton, 1.5 miles away.

The decision on whether to grant planning permission for change of use lies with North Devon Council planners.