Once a monastic rest-house on a pilgrim route and later the haunt of smugglers and wreckers, this ancient building dates in part back to 950 when it was a hermit’s cell. Close to the coast and some stunning cliff walks, the two unspoilt bars feature a Celtic piscine carved from serpentine stone, slate flagged floors, a huge stone fireplace and lovely old wooden furnishings.

Weary walkers can expect a warm welcome, a decent beer and traditional local food such as pasties and ploughmans lunch. Outside there are seats on the front lawn, giving a view out to sea, and in the sheltered sun-trap courtyard. Take time to visit the parish church and learn about the former vicar, and renowned poet, The Reverend Robert Hawker (he who started the Harvest Festival) an extraordinary man who spent 40 years serving a multitude of smugglers, wreckers and dissenters.