In an ‘absolutely beautiful position’ overlooking Start Bay, Rachael and Nigel Heath’s 19th-century village fishermen’s inn is ‘a relaxing place to stay’, writes a trusted reader this year. To reach it by car, you must negotiate ‘narrow lanes, steep hills and sharp bends’ – or walk there via the South West Coast Path. The names on the doors of the sea-facing bedrooms echo the cricket theme, but, within, the style is breezy, nautical New England. Oval has ‘a seat in the large bay window and panoramic views’. Identical Trueman and Botham have a king-size four-poster. Downstairs, the friendly hosts are ‘much in evidence’. The bar, adorned with old photographs, stocks real ales and award-winning ciders. You can eat in the restaurant or beachside, on wooden benches, from son Scott Heath’s simple menus, ranging from fish and chips, to freshly caught lobster and scallops, or sardines with harissa and a charcoal-grilled steak if you fancy something fiery or beefy. ‘The food was very good, especially the fresh fish (nice to see it was not the same every night). Breakfasts were excellent, and freshly cooked.’ (Lynn Wildgoose)