Watersmeet

‘The location is stunning, with views of the Devon coast with its sandy beaches and tumbled rocks,’ writes a reader delighted by this family-friendly hotel, promoted from the Shortlist this year. A former Edwardian gentleman’s retreat, it has pools indoors and out, and steps down from the garden to secluded Combesgate beach. The cheapest room has no window, but air conditioning and a sunpipe to channel natural light. The best suites have a sea-view balcony or terrace, an espresso machine, comfy seating. Each has its own style, with a mix of contemporary and period furnishings. ‘My spacious, comfortable room had huge windows and the spectacular view.’ The staff are ‘charming, friendly and helpful’. You can eat outside or in the dining room, which offers sea views as well as a limited menu including dishes such as Exmoor beef sirloin with crisp ox tongue and red wine juice. The ‘food is a bit variable’ but the ‘whole grilled plaice was superb’. For more options visit the bistro. ‘Breakfasts were sheer joy. They know how to scramble eggs, and the smoked salmon with them was excellent.’ (Ann Lawson Lucas)