Is there a better way to spend a dry day than walking along the coast and taking in all that fresh sea air? Exploring the outdoors, especially the coast, is such a good way to while away a day and truly unwind! There are few better ways to cap off such a day than by ending up in a lovely pub, either to enjoy a relaxing drink or enjoy a delicious meal before heading home.
With the hospitality trade going through tough times due to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s more important than ever that we support these businesses we know and love and make the effort to visit these places; with that in mind, if you’re looking for somewhere in Devon to go out for a relaxing drink and enjoy a tasty bite to eat while exploring the coast, here are 10 of our favourite coastal pubs in Devon.
Pilchard Inn, Burgh Island
When you see the Pilchard Inn, you can easily imagine salty seadog pirates swaggering in to knock back some rum — and you wouldn’t be far off the pub’s actual history. The Pilchard has been a stop for visitors to Burgh Island for more than 700 years, serving fishermen, smugglers and wreckers alike! The tourist trade is more their focus in 2020, so you’ll get a warm welcome and good food too.
The Waterfront, Plymouth
The iconic and historic pub in West Hoe had a huge renovation following the devastating winter storms of 2014; the Grade II listed building is steeped in maritime history and has a fantastic setting right on the waterfront of Plymouth’s Grand Parade! The pub has a vibrant atmosphere and the seating area at the front of the building provides top views out over the sea.
https://waterfront-plymouth.co.uk/
Cary Arms, Babbacombe
Tucked perfectly among the red sandstone cliffs and looking out over Babbacombe Bay, this grand building has a restaurant, bar, residents’ room and terrace, so you’ll have plenty of options for drinking spots. The best view in the house is at the “Captain’s Table”, a raised platform just big enough for four people to sit and gaze at unhindered sea views.
The Prince William, Brixham
After a day of exploring the pretty streets of Brixham’s inner harbour, it’s worth taking a short stroll to the Prince William, which has lovely views back over the inner harbour and out to see. This pub proudly boasts about its carvery, while the large menu also includes mussels caught in Brixham and a large selection of pizzas.
https://theprincewilliam.co.uk/
Harbour Inn, Paignton
If you fancy knocking back a beer while gazing out over Paignton’s pretty 18th century harbour, the appropriately named Harbour Inn will be a good choice! The pub’s elevated terrace offers gorgeous views stretching all the way back to the other side of Torquay, while period properties looking out over the bay are also in view.
https://www.facebook.com/HarbourInnPaignton
Anchor Inn, Beer
Nestled beautifully above Beer Bay, the Anchor and its charming beer garden has staggering views of both the sea and the limestone cliffs of Devon’s south coast. It’s a must-see pitstop if you’re exploring the Jurassic Coast; you’ll find open fires, perfect pints, an appealing wine list and delicious, hearty food if you “drop anchor” at this pub for a few hours.
https://www.greenekinginns.co.uk/hotels/anchor-inn/
The Grove, Exmouth
From both The Grove’s balcony and garden, you can easily spend a lazy afternoon watching the River Exe flow out into the ocean and knock back a pint or two. The pub is perfectly positioned along the seafront and offers uninterrupted views of the ocean, plus once you’re done enjoying the fine food and a few beverages, you can explore the longest seafront in Devon.
https://www.groveexmouth.co.uk/
Start Bay Inn, Torcross
With the sea at the front of the pub and Slapton Ley lake behind, there are few coastal pubs in locations quite as breath-taking as the Start Bay Inn. As you might expect from a coastal pub, if you decide to eat here their trademark dishes are seafood caught by their own boat, so you know it’s all fresh!
https://www.startbayinn.co.uk/
Ferry Inn, Salcombe
This pub describes itself as “Salcombe’s most famous inn”, a moniker it’s duly earned in part thanks to its magnificent position by the Salcombe Ferry. The waters of the harbour lap up against the walls of the pub’s beer garden, so you’ll get as close as is possible to the water without going for a dip!
https://www.theferryinnsalcombe.com/
The Sloop Inn, Bantham
When you walk into The Sloop for the first time, you realise that the place is very special. The pub itself has more than 700 years of history which you can gladly find out from the staff, while the pub’s incredible setting just a stone’s throw from Bantham Beach has stunning views out to Burgh Island. While it might have moved on from its days of welcoming pirates, seafarers and looking out over shipwrecks, it’s worth a visit in the modern day.
That’s our list! Have we missed off one of your favourite pubs? Let us know in the comments below!
