The Cricket Inn

The bedrooms are all named after a cricketer or cricket ground and menus are divided into first and second innings, but you’re more likely to hear the sound of waves on shingle than the thwack of willow on leather at Scott Heath’s pub-with-rooms. It looks onto Beesands beach rather than a village green, with the South West Coast Path running past the door and some lovely sea views. Despite the name, there’s a nautical feel inside, with blue and white decor in the New England-style bedrooms – two with four-posters, some for families – and seaside trimmings everywhere. In the restaurant or on a table outside, the food is decidedly fishy, in the best possible way, with excellent locally landed fish and shellfish. When you’ve said W G Grace you can tuck into crab soup, flame-grilled catch of the day or steak, fish pie or a burger. ‘The cooking was much improved,’ say Guide insiders, returning after three years. ‘A nice table by the window gave us plenty of fresh air. In the evening, people queue for fish and chips.’ (C and AR)