Start Bay Inn

Between the 2.5 mile stretch of Slapton Sands beach and Slapton Ley freshwater nature reserve, this modest ancient thatched pub with a seafront patio makes the perfect watering hole. Wash down superb, fresh seafood with local ales and cider. Feast on lightly battered fillet of cod or haddock (served in three sizes) with chips and salad, scampi, or a whole host of specials according to the daily catch: monkfish, lemon sole, Dover sole, bass, brill, scallops, skate, plaice, john dory, crab, lobster and squid all make regular appearances, as do pub staples like burgers, steaks and lasagne. A separate children's menu at £4.40 is a further plus, as is the affordable wine list which starts at £9.95.