Hidden Oak Equestrian LTD and Country Cafe are based on the site of a former pub The Halfway Inn.

The name derives from being halfway between London and Land’s End on the Sidmouth Road, in rural East Devon.

The property was beautifully renovated in 2021, to house the equestrian store and country café in existence today. In October 2023 Hidden Oak changed hands.

So, who are the new owners? Guy and Jane Kenyon are the husband-and-wife team.

Jane - "I was born in the UK but moved to South Africa with my family as a child. Although not from a horsey family I soon caught the bug that was to become an in integral part of my life. I have competed across most disciplines including showjumping, eventing and dressage. Despite getting a degree in Education I ended up working at the large equestrian retailer, Western Shoppe, in South Africa, where I stayed for 26 years. Thereafter I had my own saddle fitting business called Change of Tack. In 2022 we made the move back from South Africa to England, to be closer to family. I hope to have a lovely dressage horse again in the not-too-distant future! I trust my love of horses and the experience in the retail industry will stand us in good stead, and that we can build on the great foundations that Hidden Oak is fortunate to have."

Guy -"I was born and bred in the West Midlands, I studied Engineering in Plymouth, and worked for many years in hospitality in London. I returned to the UK in 2022 after spending almost 30 years away. During my years in South Africa, time was spent in sales and management initially in the office automation industry. The construction industry was next, working for DORMA SA for 9 years, taking a known product range and increasing the sales significantly. I then invested in a partnership/directorship of TA Walling, we successfully ran an installation business, dealing in moving walls, made of both glass and acoustic solutions. This developed into the manufacture of other products to assist in the projects in which we were involved. The move back to the UK was motivated by an offer as a National Sales Manager for DORMA Glas where I am currently employed. When I have the time, I am a keen golfer."

Hidden Oak is passionate about all things equestrian. Starting out as a small shop situated in the heart of East Devon, it has always been Jane and Guy's mission has always been to bring the equine community within this area closer together, by offering a one-stop shop that will provide everything from feed, bedding and supplements to an assortment of horse and rider wear. See their full stock list at www.hidden-oak.co.uk, which also offers a click and collect option for customers buying horse feed.

The country café is open seven days a week from 9 am to 4 pm (kitchen closes at 3pm). Offering an extensive menu of high-quality breakfasts and lunches, always using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. A selection of homemade cakes on offer, which are made each day. There are also plenty of delicious options for our vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free customers to choose from.