Things To Do
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The Beach
The hotel and Island overlooks Bigbury On Sea beach. Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the beach is dusted with sand and lapped by shallow waters. A designated area of outstanding natural beauty, this is a wonderful and romantic place to enjoy and explore. If you fancy a swim Lifeguards are present at Bigbury on Sea beach during May to September and the beach also has a first-aid room.
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The Sea Tractor
You may be lucky enough to take a ride on the third generation hydraulic Sea Tractor, the only one in the world. Designed in 1969 by Robert Jackson CBE (a pioneer of the nuclear power station programme in the ’50s) in exchange for a case of champagne and costing £9,000 to build, the Sea Tractor is an historic icon. Recently renovated to her freshly minted state, she is the best way to arrive through the surf to Burgh Island. The Sea Tractor runs for our guests when required. Members of the public can join in the ride and the fare is £2.00 each way.
Please note that in adverse weather conditions the Sea Tractor cannot always operate.
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Fishing Experiences
We have worked with local experts to curate a selection of world class fishing trips and workshops to tempt even the most experienced enthusiasts; from local fly fishing and bass fishing to exhilarating conservation shark fishing along our rugged and beautiful coastline.
Please ask our reception team for more details when booking.
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Island Walks
From the clean, tidal beach at the north of the Island to the rugged rocks on the west hand side, from the delicious secret of the Mermaid Pool to the south-east and the thousands of sea birds at home here, it should take no more than 20 minutes to wander around our 26 acres. Situated on the south coast, Burgh is the first stop off for any influx of visitors from the continent and has an interesting abundance of flora and fauna. You can regularly spot butterflies, moths, foxes, rabbits, badgers, hedgehogs, common lizard and a wide variety of birds.
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The Mermaid Pool
The Mermaid Pool is our natural sea water bathing pool, secured in WWII by a sluice gate and surrounded by rocks for utter privacy. A very refreshing and invigorating experience is guaranteed! For those of you who are not quite brave enough to take a dip, there is always our rowing boat to hop into and explore the lagoon. For the brave – always check water conditions with our Duty Manager before taking the plunge!
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Surfing & Paddleboarding
There’s a wide and varied selection of water sports available to visitors who prefer their holidays to feature a little adrenaline rush. If you want to try something different from the usual bodyboarding or surfing then windsurfing and kite-surfing are popular here, with hire facilities located right on the beach from Discovery Surf, one of the best surf schools in Devon.
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Tennis & Croquet
Enjoy a game of tennis on our outdoor court or a spot of croquet on our lawn in front of the hotel. Equipment is available from reception. The only thing you have to worry about is concentrating on the ball and not the stunning seaside views!
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Sauna and Spa Treatment Room
Due to current Government legislation we are not able to offer any treatments or use of the sauna to our guests.
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Snooker Room
This is the original ’30s billiards room (and table) of the hotel, recently restored thanks to the loving care of a regular guest and the frequent site of after dinner challenges. We can also bring you a tipple from the Palm Court Bar to enjoy while you play a frame or two.
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Table Tennis
Table Tennis is as fashionable now as pre-war. Enjoy an afternoon challenge indoors before a pre-dinner sauna.
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Relaxing in the Hotel Grounds
There is nothing quite as relaxing, or as quintessentially English, as flopping into a deck chair, soaking up the sun on your face, while enjoying stunning sea views. The team are on hand to furnish you with a glass of something too of course if it takes your fancy!
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Explore Devon
Make the most of your visit to Burgh Island and immerse yourself into the cultural and architectural history of the surrounding Devon countryside…