The Fisherman’s Cot: A 20th Century Inn in Ancient Bickleigh

Origins as a Private Fishing Lodge

The Fisherman’s Cot, a picturesque thatched inn nestled on the banks of the River Exe, was constructed in 1933 as a private fishing lodge for the nearby historic Bickleigh Castle. This relatively recent construction makes it unusual among reportedly haunted British inns, most of which date back centuries, yet its location in one of Devon’s most historically significant villages provides a rich context that may contribute to its supernatural reputation.

The original design of the building reflected its purpose as a gentleman’s retreat, with comfortable accommodations for those seeking the peaceful pursuit of angling on the River Exe. The thatched roof and traditional Devon construction materials ensured it blended harmoniously with the ancient village setting, creating a building that, despite its 20th-century origins, appears to have grown naturally from the landscape.

The Ancient Village Setting

Despite its 20th-century origins, The Fisherman’s Cot is situated in the ancient village of Bickleigh, a settlement of such antiquity that it is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as “Bichelei.” The village’s history stretches back even further, with records showing it as “Bicanleag” in a charter from 904 AD during the reign of King Edward the Elder. This places the inn at the heart of over a millennium of continuous human habitation and activity.

The inn enjoys a scenic location directly overlooking the Grade II listed Bickleigh Bridge, an elegant five-arch stone structure constructed in the early 17th century that carries the A396 across the River Exe. This bridge replaced earlier crossings that had served travellers for centuries, maintaining Bickleigh’s role as a crucial crossing point between Exeter and the northern territories of Devon.

The Paul Simon Connection

A notable event in The Fisherman’s Cot’s more recent history was the stay of musician Paul Simon in the 1960s, when he was reportedly stranded at the inn due to flooding of the River Exe. This incident led to enduring local folklore that the location and nearby bridge might have partly inspired the famous song “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” one of Simon and Garfunkel’s most beloved compositions.

The romantic notion of the flooding River Exe and the ancient bridge inspiring such an iconic piece of music captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. For decades, this story was proudly recounted by staff and regulars at The Fisherman’s Cot, adding a touch of musical legend to the inn’s history. However, in 2003, Art Garfunkel definitively disproved these rumours in an interview, stating that the song’s title and inspiration actually came from a Baptist hymn rather than the Devon landscape.

Despite this clarification, the Paul Simon connection remains an important part of The Fisherman’s Cot’s identity, demonstrating how places can acquire cultural significance that transcends literal truth. The story speaks to the inn’s ability to inspire and enchant visitors, creating memories and associations that become part of its ongoing narrative.

Transition to Public Inn

The transformation of The Fisherman’s Cot from private fishing lodge to public inn reflected changing social patterns in the 20th century. As the exclusive pursuits of the landed gentry gave way to more democratic forms of leisure and tourism, properties like The Fisherman’s Cot found new life serving a broader public.

The inn’s scenic riverside location, combined with its traditional architecture and peaceful setting, made it an ideal destination for tourists discovering Devon’s natural beauty and historical heritage. Its position beside Bickleigh Bridge provided easy access for motorists exploring the growing network of roads that connected Devon’s attractions.

Modern Operations Under Marston’s

Today, The Fisherman’s Cot operates under the Marston’s Inns brand, part of one of Britain’s most established brewery and hospitality companies. This corporate backing has enabled significant investment in the property while maintaining its traditional character and historical charm.

The inn continues to serve both local residents and tourists, offering traditional pub fare alongside comfortable accommodation for those exploring the Exe Valley. Its restaurant and riverside gardens provide dining experiences that capitalise on the stunning natural setting, while the bar maintains the convivial atmosphere essential to any successful English inn.

Historical Context and Supernatural Heritage

The Fisherman’s Cot’s position within the historically rich landscape of Bickleigh may contribute to its reported supernatural activity. The village has witnessed centuries of human drama, from Saxon settlements and Norman conquests to Civil War battles and social upheaval. The nearby Bickleigh Castle, with its connections to Queen Henrietta Maria and the English Civil War, adds layers of historical significance that paranormal researchers often associate with supernatural manifestations.

The proximity to the River Exe also carries folkloric significance. Rivers have long been considered boundary places in Celtic and Anglo-Saxon tradition—liminal spaces where the natural and supernatural worlds intersect. The combination of ancient human activity, violent historical events, and the inn’s position beside this boundary river creates conditions that folklore suggests are conducive to paranormal phenomena.

Architectural Heritage

The Fisherman’s Cot’s thatched roof construction represents a continuation of Devon’s traditional building techniques, even in the 20th century. Thatch had been used in the region for centuries, providing excellent insulation and weather protection while creating the picturesque appearance that modern visitors expect from a Devon inn.

The building’s design reflects the Arts and Crafts movement’s influence on 1930s architecture, combining traditional materials and techniques with modern amenities and construction standards. This approach created a structure that appears authentically historical while providing the comfort and facilities expected by 20th-century guests.

Contemporary Significance

Today, The Fisherman’s Cot stands as a testament to the continuity of hospitality traditions in Devon. While its ghost stories and paranormal reputation add intrigue for some visitors, the inn’s primary appeal lies in its combination of scenic beauty, traditional atmosphere, and quality service.

The establishment continues to play an important role in the local community, serving as a gathering place for residents while welcoming tourists exploring the heritage and natural beauty of the Exe Valley. Its evolution from private fishing lodge to celebrated public inn reflects broader social changes while maintaining the essential character that makes it a beloved part of Bickleigh’s landscape.

Whether visitors come seeking supernatural encounters, historical interest, excellent food, or simply the peaceful beauty of the River Exe, The Fisherman’s Cot continues to fulfil its role as a welcoming haven in one of Devon’s most enchanting settings. Its relatively brief history as a public building belies the depth of connection it has forged with its ancient surroundings, creating a modern chapter in Bickleigh’s continuing story.