Top 10 Best Accounting Firms in South Hams

Accounting Needs in South Hams

The South Hams economy creates a particular mix of accounting requirements. Holiday let owners must navigate changing tax rules, including the removal of the furnished holiday lettings regime. Farmers and landowners need expertise in agricultural property relief, diversification and succession planning. Hospitality businesses deal with seasonal cash flow, VAT and payroll, while professionals, creative freelancers and tech founders require efficient tax planning and company structures.

A good accountant does far more than file returns. They provide strategic advice, help businesses grow profitably, protect wealth across generations and ensure compliance with increasingly digital tax systems such as Making Tax Digital. Choosing a firm with relevant expertise and local understanding is invaluable.

How We Selected These Firms

We assessed expertise across tax, audit and advisory, sector specialisms, presence in the South West, reputation, client service and technology adoption. The list includes leading regional firms and national practices with strong Devon operations.

The Top 10 Accounting Firms for South Hams Clients

1. Bishop Fleming

Bishop Fleming is one of the largest independent accountancy firms in the South West, with offices including Plymouth and Torquay. It is known for its broad expertise across business advisory, tax, audit and specialist sectors, and its employee-owned structure reflects a strong culture of client care.

2. PKF Francis Clark

PKF Francis Clark is a leading South West firm offering accountancy, tax, audit and business advisory. Its expertise in agriculture, hospitality, marine and family businesses aligns closely with the South Hams economy.

3. Albert Goodman

Albert Goodman is a respected South West practice providing accounting, tax, financial planning and payroll. It is particularly well regarded for agricultural and rural business expertise.

4. Thompson Jenner

Exeter-based Thompson Jenner serves businesses and individuals across Devon. It offers accounts, tax, audit and advisory services with a reputation for approachable, personal service.

5. Milsted Langdon

Milsted Langdon is a South West firm offering accountancy, tax, corporate finance and restructuring services. Its specialist teams support growing businesses and private clients.

6. Westcotts

Westcotts is a long-established Devon and Somerset practice providing accounting, tax and business advice. Its experience with family businesses and landowners is relevant to rural South Hams clients.

7. Old Mill

Old Mill offers accountancy, tax and financial planning across the South West. Its integrated approach helps clients manage both business finances and personal wealth.

8. Azets

Azets is a large international accounting and advisory group with a significant UK network. Its scale offers specialist expertise and technology-driven services for businesses of all sizes.

9. Crowe

Crowe is a national audit, tax and advisory firm known for expertise in mid-sized businesses, charities and not-for-profits. Its services suit growing organisations with more complex requirements.

10. Xeinadin

Xeinadin brings together independent accountancy practices across the UK, combining local relationships with national resources. Its model appeals to small businesses that value a personal adviser backed by wide expertise.

Key Accounting Services in Demand

Tax planning is central for property owners, landowners and business owners, particularly around capital gains, inheritance tax and changing holiday let rules. Making Tax Digital compliance requires cloud accounting adoption. Small businesses need bookkeeping, VAT returns, payroll and management accounts. Growing companies seek advice on funding, valuations and exit strategies, while families value succession and estate planning.

Trends in Accounting

Cloud accounting platforms have transformed how businesses manage finances, enabling real-time insights and collaboration with advisers. Automation and AI are reducing manual work, allowing accountants to focus on advisory services. Environmental, social and governance reporting is emerging as a new area of expertise. Many firms are also expanding into financial planning and wealth management to offer holistic support.

Tax Considerations for Holiday Let Owners

With the abolition of the furnished holiday lettings tax regime, many South Hams owners face changes to how income, mortgage interest and capital gains are treated. Specialist advice is essential to understand the impact and plan accordingly, including considerations around ownership structures and long-term strategy.

Choosing the Right Accountant

Look for a firm with experience in your sector and circumstances. Check professional qualifications, such as membership of ICAEW, ACCA or CIOT. Ask about fees, communication and technology used. Consider whether you need a local office for face-to-face meetings or are comfortable working remotely. Most importantly, choose an adviser who takes time to understand your goals.

Support for Farming and Rural Businesses

Agriculture remains an important part of South Hams life, and farming families face significant financial decisions. Changes to agricultural and business property relief, environmental land management schemes and diversification projects such as glamping, farm shops and renewable energy all have tax and accounting implications. Specialist rural accountants help farmers understand subsidy changes, plan succession between generations and structure new ventures efficiently. Working closely with land agents and solicitors, they provide joined-up advice that protects both the family business and the land for the future.

Conclusion

The right accountant can save money, reduce stress and help you plan with confidence. From regional leaders like Bishop Fleming and PKF Francis Clark to specialist rural advisers such as Albert Goodman, South Hams clients have access to exceptional financial expertise tailored to the local economy.