Allied to the Burgh Island Hotel, and only accessible by sea tractor when the tide’s in, the venerable Pilchard Inn has been quenching local thirsts for more than 700 years – although today’s drinkers are more likely to be arty incomers, holidaymakers and fashionable types out on a spree rather than smugglers and wreckers. Huddle by the roaring fire or grab one of the picnic tables by the water’s edge and watch the tides ‘meet’ and ‘part’, while supping a pint of Devon-brewed ale and slurping some native Bigbury oysters. Bar food is only served at lunchtime: the mainstays are bagels and baguettes filled with anything from Brixham crab and spring onion to locally smoked salmon or Cheddar and real-ale chutney. On Fridays, the Pilchard hosts a renowned curry night, with dishes prepared by the hotel’s kitchen – booking essential.