Chapel House

Be buoyed by the ‘coastal lightness’ at Sue Stuart’s personable guest house, in a ‘lovely’ location close to the harbour wall. ‘Immaculate and inviting, it’s the sort of place you revel in enjoying,’ say Guide inspectors in 2016. The 18th-century house has been ‘beautifully’ decorated: white-painted floorboards, a mix of antique and ‘interesting’ contemporary pieces, fresh flowers, ‘comfy’ sofas, a changing gallery of local artwork; a ‘chic’, ‘uncluttered’ feel throughout. ‘Every window frames a picturesque aspect – the harbour, the coastline, the adjacent church tower.’ ‘Spacious’ bedrooms on the upper floors have ‘fine sea views’; three rooms at the top share a landing with books and games – ideal for a family. On Friday and Saturday evenings, stay in for a communal dinner in the ‘gorgeous’ open-plan kitchen/dining area: over complimentary aperitifs, the ‘caring, hands-on’ hostess cooks ‘fresh, simple’ meals, perhaps pan-fried brill, Cornish early potatoes, samphire. In summer, take breakfast in the ‘pretty’ garden – the west Cornwall option of sizzled cod roe, smoked bacon and a poached egg makes a fine partner to the ‘splendid harbour views’.