The Cricket Inn Shortlist*

Facing the beach and a wide expanse of sea, this 19th-century inn on Start Bay is ‘rightly popular’ for its ‘excellent’ upmarket pub grub and stylish accommodation. The whole is a family concern: owners Rachel and Nigel Heath renovated and extended the building to include its airy, New England-style bedrooms. At lunch and dinner, tuck in to fresh seafood including crab, lobster and scallops straight from the bay – it’s all served by the ‘friendly’ staff. There is a new Josper charcoal-fired oven which gives a delicious smokey taste to many of the dishes. Spend the night in one of the seaside-inspired bedrooms, refurbished in 2016. Some are large enough to accommodate a family; most have sea views. Two suites, Botham and Trueman, have recently been upgraded with four-poster beds. Full Devonshire breakfasts. On the South West Coastal Path; the village has a large freshwater lake with a bird hide. Going walking? Ask about luggage transfers to your next destination. Bar, restaurant (alfresco dining). Private dining facilities. Free Wi-Fi, in-room TV. No background music. Parking. Children (special menu) and dogs welcomed. 7 bedrooms (4 in a new extension; 3 family rooms). Per room B&B £100–£130, D,B&B £140–£170.