According to the more optimistic forecasts, we’re due a scorching second half to September, so don’t mourn the end of the summer just yet. Instead, grab your sandals and sunhats, and head south-west for a mini-break. If you’re not sure where to aim for, join us on our tour of Devon and Cornwall’s beachside eateries, from the south coast round to the north. Our selection has pretty much every foodie preference covered, from the full English to fine dining.
And in case our fickle weather should change its mind, we’ve got plenty of suggestions for fabulous eateries with indoor attractions.
The Orangery Restaurant – Kenton
The Orangery Restaurant is in an ideal location for a great day out. Set within the Powderham Castle Estate’s Country Store, there are beautiful views of the deer park and castle. A stroll through the estate to the estuary is the perfect way to build up an appetite or walk off your meal, and The Orangery boasts an outside terrace– the perfect setting for their renowned cream tea.
Black Rock Beach Café & Bistro – Millendreath
This elegant beach-hut-style eatery couldn’t get much closer to the beach. It also stands out for its modern Latin-inspired cuisine that uses the freshest Cornish seafood. Afternoon tea, homemade cakes and freshly ground coffees ensure that you’re in for a treat at any time of the day.
The Waterside – Flushing Quay
This seafood restaurant and café on Flushing’s historic quay is a place for all weathers and occasions. Tables outside on the sunny terrace are the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and freshly baked scones while watching the boats go by. The Waterside is easily accessible by car, but it’s more fun to instead catch the ferry across the estuary from Falmouth.
Talland Bay Hotel – Porthallow
The Talland Bay Hotel is an idyllic retreat in a delightfully rural spot just up the lane from the beach. Dining is a refined affair taking inspiration from British and French cuisine, and the hotel’s accommodation is impeccable, with an elegant blend of contemporary art and classic nautical touches.
Lusty Glaze Beach – Newquay
Pause to survey the spectacular views as you make your way down the 133 steps to the shelter of the beach and the idyll that is Lusty Glaze. Listen to the waves crashing against the shore as you enjoy inventive yet unpretentious food, ranging from breakfast granola to surf and turf, and friendly, informal service.
The Falcon Inn – St Mawgan
If you’re flying in for your beachside break, The Falcon Inn is the perfect first stop. This 16th-century free house by the river is only a two-minute drive from Newquay airport and is ideally situated for walks around Lanherne Valley and along the Padstow-to-Bodmin path, and for cycling on the Camel Trail, as well as for surfing, beaches and the nightclubs of Newquay.
Constantine Restaurant – Trevose Golf & Country Club
For an unforgettable round of golf and fine dining experience, head to Trevose Golf & Country Club. The light and airy Constantine Restaurant offers a little piece of gourmet heaven overlooking the wild Atlantic, with stunning vistas across the fairway to Constantine Bar and Trevose Head.
The Rock Inn – Wadebridge
For delectable British fare paired with beautiful vistas, The Rock Inn is the place to be. With stunning panoramas of Camel Estuary and Padstow harbour from the elevated decking, in addition to a beautiful indoor dining area, The Rock Inn offers everything from a healthy breakfast to an extensive à la carte menu.
The Cornish Arms – Chapman’s Field
Just a couple of miles inland from the picturesque fishing village of Port Isaac, The Cornish Arms offers a traditional Cornish pub experience and make the perfect base for exploring the northern coastline.
Olive Tree – Bude
Picture yourself sitting on the banks of a Cornish Canal, soaking up the sunshine with a plate of fine local food in front of you, and you’ve just placed yourself at the Olive Tree – a must-visit for al fresco dining in Cornwall. Come evening, the Olive Tree transforms into an atmospheric restaurant.
The Red Barn – Woolacombe
Set right by the entrance to Woolacombe beach, The Red Barn is a local institution that has been serving beachgoers for over 50 years. The surfboards on the ceiling lend a laid-back beachside vibe, making The Red Barn the perfect spot to linger over a full English breakfast, a sophisticated special dish, an evening pint or one of Aunt Kelly’s Devon cream teas.
And just in case the sun doesn’t make it, here are some fabulous foodie destinations with indoor attractions:
Darts Farm – Topsham
There are foodie delights a-plenty to keep you busy at Darts Farm. Tuck into a hearty all-day breakfast, a homemade lasagne or a decadent afternoon tea, browse the fabulous local produce at the award-winning farm shop or visit The Fish Shed for seasonal fish straight from the slab. Darts Farm also runs foodie events including cookery demonstrations with local celebrity chefs.
Home Kitchen – Dawlish
Dawlish is a great place to visit by train, along Brunel’s spectacular stretch of waterfront railway, and the cosy Home Kitchen is only a stone’s throw from the station. Stop in and refuel with a warming cappuccino and home-baked scone or slice of gluten-free chocolate cake.
The Old Pottery Restaurant – Bovey Tracey
The Old Pottery Restaurant is situated within House of Marbles, where the marble museum and glassblowing demonstrations provide entertainment for young and old alike. The food is fresh and locally sourced, and is everything you would hope for from a charming market-town restaurant.
The Plough – Duloe
Awarded gold by the Taste of the West in 2013, 2015 and 2016, The Plough at Duloe celebrates local Cornish produce with an inspired menu – look out for locally landed seafood and meat from nearby farms. There’s a children’s menu and colouring books so your little ones will be well catered for too.
Trevathan Farm – St Endellion
Even if the sun isn’t shining, there’s plenty to do at Trevathan Farm, from the farm shop, bursting with local artisan produce to the pets corner for children. The farm’s restaurant offers first-rate food ranging from breakfast, through light bites and cream teas, to traditional Sunday roast. You can even book in to one of the farm’s charming self-catering cottages.
To find more, take a look at our Devon and Cornwall restaurant guides online.
