The Cleeve House

Recommended again in 2009 for its 'good value', this small, unpretentious and 'welcoming' hotel is run by owners David and Anne Strobel, 'such helpful hosts'. 'We were greeted like old friends,' say a couple on their sixth visit. It stands in a village above Woolacombe and its three-mile Blue Flag beach. The bedrooms, with their pine furniture, 'are fairly small, but have everything you might need'. Rear rooms have country views. The Strobels share the cooking (he does the main course, she the puddings). 'We endeavour to support our local suppliers,' they say. Bread, cakes, jam, sauces, chocolate truffles are all home made. 'David's dishes are imaginative', eg, 'excellent crab salad'; supreme of free-range chicken with mushroom and ginger sauce. There is a range of vegetarian alternatives. The dining room closes during the school summer holidays, when 'most guests prefer B&B'. Breakfast can be continental or full English. There is a 'comfortable' lounge. The South West Coast Path is nearby. (Christine Moore)