The Druidstone

In a 'stunning cliff-top location' above a huge sandy beach, Rod, Jane and Angus Bell's 'family holiday centre' is 'very relaxed'. 'It feels like a real hotel, not at all corporate; full of character, and of characters,' says a returning visitor. 'Not for those who require perfection in service and decor. Our children are made to feel welcome; they have a high tea with other children around a big kitchen table.' The staff are 'lovely and helpful', says another guest. Mrs Bell tells us: 'Rod and I are gradually retiring, though still living on site; Angus is now in charge.' Angus also runs the kitchen (with Andrew Bennett and Matt Ash): guests might be joined by locals in the bar for pub dishes like chicken and leek pie. The restaurant menu might include Brie rolls stuffed with roasted pepper; monkfish Provençal. Four bedrooms have private facilities (the others share three bathrooms); the two penthouse bedrooms each have a balcony facing St Bride's Bay. Sound insulation may not always be perfect. Self-catering cottages in the grounds include the tiny Roundhouse, an 'Eco Hut' which derives its energy from the sun. Pets are welcomed, so long as they get on with Jake, the donkey. Popular for weddings and parties. (Melissa Midgen, and others)