History of Highbullen

Hugh Neil served as an R.A.F. spitfire pilot during World War II and spent two years as an instructor. In 1946 he met and married a young Pamela Coombes who was also serving in the R.A.F. as a corporal.

On 14th April 1949 at 12 noon, together they started a hotel in Cromwell Road, Kensington, London. With Hugh's experience in US hospitality they soon up-graded the two Victorian Houses that constituted their new home "The King Charles Hotel". It became a great centre for many travelers from home and abroad including many theatricals with the opening of the Cavalier drinking club!!

In 1962, looking for a small country weekend retreat they found Highbullen while on holiday in North Devon. Realising its potential, they started the ground work for the great place that it is today. The cellar restaurant was established and became the heart of North Devon's gastronomy in the late sixties and early seventies due largely to Pamela's great food (High Good Food guide Accolades) and Hugh's hospitality in the bar!!

After five years the King Charles was sold allowing Highbullen to start developing its sports and leisure base. Highbullen Farm was purchased bringing with it the vital surrounding land to establish a Golf Course. At this point tennis, squash and the outdoor pool were instated and Hugh established a 9-hole golf course around the hotel. A few years later Rowcliffe Farm was acquired followed by their son Martin buying Whitehall house. More hotel rooms!!!

By the late seventies the hotel was buzzing with enthusiastic guests who would return, year after year to enjoy the low key sports operation or just relax in spectacular surroundings.

Throughout, their two children, Colette and Martin helped from time to time before finally taking over the running of the business full time. During this time Colette also opened her own hotel, Stumbles, in South Molton.

Martin's passion was to extend the small 9 hole golf course into the well established 18 that it is today. His ambition continued with the building of a splendid Pavilion which now houses the indoor pool, Gym and fitness suite and complements the golf with Clubhouse, Brasserie and function room.

Colette took over from Mum in the kitchen but now works up front with many long standing staff to welcome lots of new and return guests alike.