About Us
Highbullen History
Behind the impressive Victorian Gothic façade of Highbullen lies a wealth of history and adventure. From battlefields in times gone by, to classrooms in World War Two and a spell as a magnificent family home - Highbullen has some incredible stories to tell, here are a few it's shared so far…
Ancient battlefields
The booming of cannons may seem hard to imagine now in this tranquil setting between the Mole and Taw valleys. However the recent discovery of cannon balls nearby has led historians to believe this site was the scene of a skirmish in Commonwealth times.
An architect’s dream
Of
course this was all long before the Victorian manor house we know
and love was built. It was in 1879 that William Moore, a
prominent architect and builder from Exeter built the impressive
mansion from stone quarried from within the estate.
Highbullen is a fine example of the architecture that emerged from
the "Arts and Crafts" movement. It is easy to see the
influence of Philip Webb, who is often referred to as the father of
the "Arts and Crafts" architecture. The solid, well
proportioned forms, steep roofs and deep porches of Highbullen are
all typical of Webb's style and the intriguing marble fireplace in
the drawing room is of particular note. Highbullen remained
the Moore family's home for over 40 years.
Wartime evacuees
Jumping
forward to World War Two a new and exciting chapter opened in
Highbullen's history. The substantial ground floor rooms
became classrooms when a private school was evacuated there and
during this time the grounds were maintained by German prisoners of
war.
The hotel is born
In
1963 Hugh and Pam Neil bought Highbullen and turned it into an
exclusive hotel. During the 60's and 70's the hotel became
the heart of North Devon gastronomy receiving a coveted Cesar
Award. Delia Smith regularly visited and a number of Pam
Neil's recipes are included in her cookery books.
Since the hotel opened its doors, the spectacular scenery and
architecture have continued to attract personalities such as Sir
Laurence Olivier who wrote most of his autobiography at
Highbullen. Other guests have included former French
President Giscard d'Estaing, author Wilbur Smith, composer Andrew
Lloyd Webber and supermodel Elle McPherson.
The link with the arts world has been maintained with actor Martin
Neil taking over the reins of the hotel from his parents.
Martin bought Highbullen into the 21st century with a flourish
installing the popular 18 hole golf course and the Pavilion.
The latest chapter
History continues with the
co-ownership of the hotel by Environ Communities Ltd. Private
ownership allows us to remain true to the exceptional setting and
character of Highbullen and to maintain a haven for country lovers
in this special place.